Palestinian Athlete Refuses to Play Against Israeli in Boxing Contest

Occupied Jerusalem, MINA – A Palestinian athlete from Occupied Jerusalem on Tuesday withdrew from an international boxing competition hosted by Thailand after an Israeli competitor was selected to play against him.

The 14-year-old Abdulsalam Aqel said that he decided to withdraw from the annual championship instead of competing with an athlete who represents Israel which occupies his land and oppresses his people, PIC reported.

Aqel, who plays for Jerusalem Tigers for Muay Thai in Beit Hanina, said in a statement to al-Jazeera Net that playing with the Israeli rival means recognizing Israel and accepting its crimes against the Palestinian people.

Aqel is a member of a three-athlete team from Jerusalem participating in the Thailand-hosted competition.(R/R04/RE1)

Also Read: STREET ART CAMPAIGN BRIGHTENS GAZA REFUGEE CAMP

Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)