Israel’s footballer, Sagiv Jehezkel, was detained by the Turkish police after he displayed a message written on his wrist during a top-tier match in the league.
Jehezkel scored a header into the net and then celebrated in front of the camera by pointing towards his wrist, where “100 days, 7/10” was written, probably referring to the Israeli hostages still in Hamas’ captivity.
The celebration sparked controversy in no time as the 28-year-old started getting bashed by fans on social media and many asked a proper action against the wing-back.
Turkey’s justice minister, Yılmaz Tunç, confirmed on his X, formerly Twitter, account that an investigation had been launched against the Israeli footballer.
“Antalya Chief Public Prosecutor's Office has launched a judicial investigation against Israeli football player Sagiv Jehezkel for the crime of 'publicly inciting the public to hatred and hostility' due to his ugly action supporting the massacre committed by Israel in #Gazze after the goal he scored in the Antalyaspor-Trabzonspor Super League match played today,” he wrote on X.
“I once again condemn the attacks of Israel, which has committed crimes against humanity by committing genocide in Gaza, regardless of children or women, young or old, for more than 100 days. We will always continue to stand by the oppressed Palestinians.”
On the other hand, as per the Israeli media, despite knowing the serious consequences, Jehezkel does not regret the message as the only thing he wants is for the war to end.
“It was a gesture for the Israeli hostages in Gaza, a humanitarian gesture,” said Jehezkel. “It was important to me to point out that they have been in captivity for 100 days. I didn't want to provoke anyone. I know Turkish feelings, it was just a gesture.
“I only wrote the number 100 and symbolized half a heart with my hand. "This shouldn't incite anyone. On the contrary, it should inspire empathy for the people who have been trapped there for so long."
The 28-year-old was taken to the court on Monday morning where he was questioned by the judge, and, as per the latest news by CNN, he had been released from the police’s custody and is likely to fly back to Israel.
