An Israeli soccer star who plays in Turkey's domestic league is under investigation for “inciting hatred” after expressing support for Israel's war against Hamas.
After scoring a goal for Antalyaspor in the Turkish Super Lig, Sagib Yehezker, 28, pointed to his wrist and read “100 days. 7.10''. It was the day it launched a massive and brutal attack on Israeli soldiers and civilians.
Antalyaspor's Sagib Yehezker and Fenerbahce's Rodrigo Becao watch the Turkish Super League match between Fenerbahce and Antalyaspor at Urker Sukur Saraçoglu Stadium on September 17, 2023 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Ahmad Molla/Defodi Images via Getty Images)
Turkey's Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunku called Ihezker's actions an “ugly act”.
“Antalya's Chief Prosecutor's Office has issued a statement against Israeli footballer Sagiv Yehezkel for his ugly gesture in support of Israeli genocide in Gaza after scoring a goal in the Antalyaspor vs. Trabzonspor Super Lig match. We have launched a judicial investigation for 'inciting hatred and hostility among the people,''' Tunku said, according to Reuters.
Tunku hastened to add that he also condemned Israel's defense of its people and territory.
“I condemn the Israeli attack on the Gaza Strip, which has committed crimes against humanity and committed genocide with disregard for children, women, young and old, for more than 100 days. We, the oppressed Palestinians, We will continue to stand by our side,” Tunku said, via Israel National News.
The Turkish Justice Minister's strong words follow even harsher words from Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, who called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “no different from Hitler.”
