Mohamed al-Wahidi, the aid worker who organised public screenings of World Cup matches across the Gaza Strip, was killed when a missile struck his taxi shortly before Egypt played Argentina in their round of 16 match. The screenings had become a welcome diversion from the continuing misery of a partly observed ceasefire and near-daily Israeli strikes.
Attack on the way to a screening
According to his family, al-Wahidi was in a taxi on his way to a screening of the match in Tel al-Hawa in southern Gaza City when a missile hit the car. He was the director of public relations for the Egyptian Committee in Gaza and had been the driving force behind setting up large outdoor screens to broadcast the 2026 World Cup games.
Football as a respite from war
Despite the widespread destruction caused by Israel’s continuing war, hundreds of Palestinians gathered among bombed-out buildings in Gaza City and Khan Younis to watch the matches. The gatherings reflect a passion for football among Gaza’s inhabitants and their efforts to maintain moments of joy and normalcy.
One event drew a huge crowd, with some standing on the rubble of a ruined building to watch Argentina play Egypt. Children watched from rooftops, trying to catch a glimpse of the game. Displaced Palestinians also gathered in Khan Younis for the match.
Impact and aftermath
Al-Wahidi’s death underscores the dangers faced by civilians in Gaza, where a fragile ceasefire is frequently violated. The World Cup screenings had provided a rare source of entertainment and unity for Palestinians enduring the conflict. The Egyptian Committee in Gaza confirmed his role and the circumstances of his death.
