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Portrait of Mahmoud Sarsak

Mahmoud Sarsak

Resilient Palestinian Footballer

Born
1987
Born in
Rafah, Gaza Strip
Path
Sports
Read Mahmoud’s story2 videosAsk about Mahmoud

Why Mahmoud is here

Symbol of Resilience and Resistance

Their story

Mahmoud Sarsak is a former Palestinian national football team player who gained international attention due to his imprisonment by Israel without formal charges and his subsequent hunger strike. His case highlighted the struggles faced by Palestinian athletes and became a focal point for international advocacy efforts.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Mahmoud’s path.

  1. Arrest and Detention

    In 2009, Sarsak was detained by Israeli forces, accused of affiliations with militant groups, a charge he denied. He was held without trial under Israel's 'unlawful combatants' law.

  2. Hunger Strike

    In 2012, Sarsak embarked on a nearly three-month-long hunger strike, protesting his detention without charges or trial, which drew international attention and support.

  3. Release

    After 92 days of hunger striking, Sarsak was released on July 10, 2012, following extensive international pressure, including from prominent sports figures and organizations.

  4. Advocacy

    Following his release, Sarsak has been active in raising awareness about the plight of Palestinian prisoners and the impact of the Israeli occupation on Palestinian sports.

  5. International Engagements

    He has participated in various international forums and discussions, highlighting the challenges faced by Palestinians, particularly in the realm of sports and human rights.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Highlighting Injustice

    Through his plight, Sarsak brought international attention to the issue of administrative detention and the broader injustices faced by Palestinian athletes under Israeli occupation.

    Watch

  2. Inspiring Solidarity

    His case prompted solidarity from international sports organizations, athletes, and activists, fostering a broader dialogue about human rights and sports.

  3. Advocating for Prisoner Rights

    Since his release, Sarsak has been a vocal advocate for the rights of Palestinian prisoners, participating in campaigns and public speaking.

  4. Promoting Palestinian Nationalism

    Sarsak has used his platform to promote Palestinian national identity and resilience through sports.

  5. International Speaker

    He has spoken at various international venues, sharing his experiences and the broader Palestinian struggle, influencing public opinion and policy discussions related to Palestine and human rights.

    Watch

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Watch & listen

Mahmoud in interviews, talks and coverage.

  • 01Highlighting Injustice↗

  • 02International Speaker↗

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