Aid worker Mohammed al-Wahidi, who had become a prominent humanitarian figure in Gaza, was killed in an Israeli strike, according to reports. Al-Wahidi was known for his efforts to provide moments of respite for families, particularly children, amidst the ongoing conflict. His death occurred just hours before a screening of Egypt's last 16 World Cup match against Argentina.
Al-Wahidi had organized initiatives to broadcast World Cup matches on large screens in Gaza, offering a temporary escape from the harsh realities of war. Videos circulated online showing children and families gathering to watch the games among destroyed buildings, providing rare instances of celebration during the conflict. These screenings were particularly popular due to the long-standing cultural and emotional ties between Palestinians and Egypt.
Activist Mohammed Hmeid described al-Wahidi not just as a humanitarian worker but as "a door to hope" for displaced individuals. He was remembered for his kindness, integrity, and generosity. The loss of al-Wahidi underscores the significant risks faced by humanitarian workers in Gaza.
As of late April, the United Nations had recorded at least 593 aid workers killed since the war began, with eight fatalities occurring after a ceasefire was agreed upon 10 months prior to that figure. The Israeli military initiated its campaign in Gaza following the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reports that at least 73,118 people have been killed in Israeli attacks in the territory since the conflict started, a figure considered reliable by the UN.