Palestinian Goalkeeper Saleem Al-Ashqar Killed During Israeli West Bank Raid

Palestinian goalkeeper Saleem Al-Ashqar was killed on Wednesday during an Israeli military operation in the West Bank city of Qalqilya. The Palestine Football Association (PFA) confirmed the death of the athlete, who played for Al-Ahli Qalqilya in the Palestinian leagues. Military Raid in Qalqilya Local reports indicate that Israeli forces entered the city of Qalqilya early Wednesday morning, leading to confrontations in the area. Al-Ashqar was reportedly targeted during the incursion. While the Israeli military frequently conducts search-and-arrest operations in the West Bank, the PFA stated that the targeting of athletes has become a recurring issue during the ongoing regional conflict. Al-Ashqar is the latest addition to a growing list of Palestinian sports figures killed over the past 15 months. Since October 7, 2023, the PFA has documented the deaths of hundreds of players, coaches, and administrative officials across both the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. The association has repeatedly called on international sporting bodies, including FIFA and the International Olympic Committee, to intervene and provide protection for Palestinian athletes. Impact on Palestinian Athletics…