Egyptian footballer Ahmed Hassan Kouka, currently playing for Portuguese club Rio Ave, honored the memory of revered Palestinian figure Khaled Nabhan and his granddaughter Reem, who were killed by Israeli airstrikes during the ongoing genocide in Gaza.
During a match against Vitória de Guimarães on Tuesday, Kouka unveiled a white shirt under his jersey featuring an image of Nabhan holding Reem, accompanied by the heartfelt phrase, “Soul of my soul.” This poignant gesture highlighted Kouka’s solidarity with the Palestinian people and his condemnation of the atrocities unfolding in Gaza.
Kouka’s Outspoken Advocacy for Gaza
The Egyptian-origin player has consistently voiced his concern over the devastating toll of the Israeli assault on Gaza. In October, Kouka took to X (formerly Twitter) to denounce the relentless attacks that have targeted hospitals, schools, residential buildings, refugee camps, and even aid centers, resulting in thousands of civilian deaths.
“I tried to stay away from the news a little about what’s happening to our brothers in Palestine because I started to get into depression,” he wrote. “Imagine them! Just imagine them living it as a reality! Families were just burned alive! Don’t stop reminding everyone what Israel does to the children and civilians.”
Kouka’s words and actions reflect his commitment to amplifying the voices of Gaza’s oppressed and bringing global attention to their plight.
Who Was Khaled Nabhan?
Khaled Nabhan, affectionately known as Abu Diaa, was a beloved figure in Gaza, widely recognized for his humanitarian work and his love for animals, including caring for the city’s stray cats. Tragically, Nabhan lost his life in an Israeli airstrike on the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza.
Abu Diaa became a symbol of resilience and love when a video of him bidding an emotional farewell to his deceased granddaughter Reem went viral. Calling her “soul of my soul,” his grief-stricken words captured the profound pain endured by countless families in Gaza.
Reem, killed in an earlier Israeli attack, was cherished by her grandfather, who often comforted grieving families amidst the relentless bombings. Nabhan’s compassion and dedication to his community have made his loss deeply felt across Palestine and beyond.
As Gaza continues to endure unimaginable suffering, gestures like Kouka’s serve as a powerful reminder of the humanity at the heart of this crisis.
