Palestinian footballer and goalkeeper Salim Al-Ashqar from Gaza has been killed after being shot during Israeli military operations, according to Arab media reports and the Palestinian Football Association (PFA).

Reports said Al-Ashqar was fatally shot in the chest in the town of Al-Qarara, northeast of Khan Younis in southern Gaza.

In a statement, the Palestinian Football Association said that more than 1,000 Palestinian athletes have been killed since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict in October 2023, including more than 560 footballers.

Al-Ashqar played as a goalkeeper for Khadamat Khan Younis Sports Club, one of Gaza s well-known local football clubs. During his career, he also represented Al-Aqsa Sports Club and Al-Masdar Sports Club.

According to reports, Al-Ashqar had married just five months ago. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief among his family, teammates, and the wider Palestinian sporting community.

Chilean football club Club Deportivo Palestino, which has strong historical ties to the Palestinian community, also expressed sorrow over Al-Ashqar s death and called for justice.

Meanwhile, displays of solidarity with Palestinians have continued during international football events, including matches associated with the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Fans in several stadiums have been seen chanting in support of Palestinians and wearing the keffiyeh, a traditional symbol of Palestinian identity.

Media reports also state that Gaza s sports infrastructure has suffered extensive destruction during the conflict, with many stadiums and sports facilities damaged or destroyed, significantly disrupting sporting activities in the territory.

Among other prominent Palestinian football figures reported killed during the conflict are former national team captain Suleiman Al-Obeid, widely known as the "Palestinian Pelé," and former national team player Mohammed Barakat.