08.04.2026 17:03
Former Galatasaray player Hakim Ziyech criticized the law proposing the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners, responding to Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir, who threatened him, by saying, "We will never stop telling the truth. We are not afraid of Zionism and its oppressions."
Galatasaray's Moroccan star Hakim Ziyech responded on social media to Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who targeted him for his support of Palestine. Ziyech's statement "We are not afraid of Zionism" quickly made headlines around the world.
ISRAELI MINISTER HAD THREATENED ZIYECH
Hakim Ziyech, who did not remain silent against the humanitarian tragedy in Palestine and had previously criticized the Israeli army's actions in the West Bank harshly, was once again put in the crosshairs. Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, while defending a bill proposing the death penalty for Palestinian prisoners, accused Ziyech of being "antisemitic" and used threatening language.
"YOUR THREATS CANNOT INTIMIDATE US"
The experienced footballer, who did not remain silent in the face of the Israeli minister's direct targeting statements, responded with a statement. Ziyech emphasized that he would not back down, saying, "We will never stop telling the truth. We are not afraid of Zionism and its pressures. We will continue to stand by those who fight for freedom."
HE HAD PREVIOUSLY REACTED AS WELL
Ziyech had previously shared footage of Israeli soldiers' interventions against Palestinian civilians and expressed his reaction by saying, "Damn Israel and all the countries that support such behavior."