GAZA, July 29, 2025 (WAFA) – As the final days of July unfold, Gaza faced yet another chapter of devastating loss — this time, within the heart of its sports arenas, scout fields, and youth spaces.
Thirty-nine athletes, scouts, and young people were killed in July alone, bringing the total number of slain Palestinians from sports, youth, and scouting movements to more than 656 since the beginning of the ongoing genocide.
These are not just numbers. They are faces that once lit up Gaza’s stadiums with energy, dreams, and hope.
Among those killed: Ismail Abu Dan, a beloved footballer, followed by Sami Al-Helou of Al-Tuffah Club. Emad Yousef Al-Hawajri of Rabat Club, Emad Al-Abed Al-Fayoumi, former star of Shuja’iyya, and Ahmed Ali Asaad Salah, a player from Shabab Al-Khader.
From the scouting movement, young Iman Mohammad Harz, who is part from the Peace Scouts and Guides Group, was killed by Israeli airstrikes.
Boxer Ahmad Bakhit was gunned down, and handball player Mohammad Omar Abdullah Abu Abdu.
And in one of the most heartbreaking losses, Asaad Abu Shouqa, Vice President of the Palestinian Karate Federation, was killed while being displaced — having already lost his home, daughter, and grandchildren.
The Football Association topped the list of casualties, a scene that makes us wonder: How can sports survive amid such systematic death? How can a pure dream like the dream of playing be slaughtered so brutally?
Y.S
