Hakim Ziyech responds to Ben-Gvir over Gaza remarks

Friday 21 August 2026 - 10:33

By: Azzat Manal

Hakim Ziyech responds to Ben-Gvir over Gaza remarks

Moroccan footballer Hakim Ziyech has publicly responded to Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir following controversial remarks attributed to the Israeli politician concerning Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

Ziyech shared a video featuring Ben-Gvir’s comments on his Instagram story and added a brief message expressing his rejection of the minister’s statements. The Moroccan international wrote that Palestinian lives are more valuable than Ben-Gvir, in a direct response to remarks calling for the killing of Palestinians in Gaza.

Ben-Gvir has repeatedly faced international criticism over statements concerning the war in Gaza and has advocated policies including the expansion of Israeli settlements in the territory and encouraging Palestinians to leave the area.

The latest exchange is not the first confrontation between Ziyech and Ben-Gvir. The Moroccan player has previously criticized the Israeli minister’s positions on Palestinians, while Ben-Gvir has responded by attacking Ziyech publicly and accusing him of antisemitism.

Ziyech also criticized Ben-Gvir earlier this year after the minister celebrated the approval of legislation concerning the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners. The dispute subsequently escalated on social media, with Ben-Gvir directing further accusations and threats toward the footballer.

The former Ajax, Chelsea and Galatasaray player has been outspoken about the Palestinian issue for several years. He has repeatedly used his social media platforms to express solidarity with Palestinians and criticize Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.

Ziyech has also joined other athletes in political and humanitarian initiatives linked to the conflict. He was among sports figures who signed a letter addressed to UEFA calling for action regarding Israel’s participation in European football competitions.

His latest post has once again brought his political stance into the spotlight, illustrating the growing role of prominent athletes in public debates surrounding international conflicts and humanitarian issues.