Turkish authorities have suspended Sagiv Jehezkel, the Israeli player from soccer club Antalyaspor, for questioning. This action was taken after he expressed solidarity with individuals held captive by the Hamas militant organisation during a top-tier league game.
He has been released from police custody after questioning by the local prosecutor’s office, as reported by the Turkish state media agency Anadolu.
Jehezkel explained to the police that his intention was to call for an end to the conflict. He displayed a bandage on his wrist with the words "100 Days 7.10," referencing October 7, the day of the Hamas attack on Israel and the abduction of hostages.
Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc stated on January 14 night that Jehezkel, a 28-year-old Israeli international, is currently under investigation for potential charges of "openly inciting the public to hatred and hostility." Tunc, in a statement shared on X, asserted that Jehezkel had made "an ugly gesture in support of the Israeli massacre in Gaza."
The gesture was considered provocative in Turkey, where there is widespread public opposition to Israel's military actions in Gaza and strong support for the Palestinians.
In response, Antalyaspor has suspended Jehezkel from the team and announced that they are consulting with the club's legal team regarding the possibility of terminating his contract.
In his police interrogation, the player refuted allegations that he committed a provocative act, as reported by the private DHA news agency.
“I am not pro-war,” DHA quoted him as telling police. “I want this 100-day process to come to an end. I want the war to end.” Jehezkel continued.
“I have never engaged in anything related to politics since my arrival. I have never disrespected anyone since the day I arrived.”
"The point I wanted to draw attention to was (the need) for an end of the war.” The Turkish Football Federation condemned what it said was a gesture that “disturbed the conscience” of the Turkish public.
Jehezkel's detention, meanwhile, sparked outrage in Israel.
“Shame on you, Turkish government,” former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennet wrote on X.
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