Egypt coach Hassan says FIFA should use ‘soft power’ to aid plight of Palestinians

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan says at the World Cup that the suffering of the Palestinian people is a “shame on the world” as he calls on the world of soccer to do more to come to their aid.

Hassan waved a Palestinian flag after the Pharaohs beat Australia on penalties on Friday to reach the World Cup last 16, where they will meet defending champions Argentina tomorrow.

“If there is someone who has not felt the suffering of the Palestinian people then he or she has no humanity,” Hassan says in a lengthy address to a question on the subject at his pre-match press conference in Atlanta.

“I would like to say this is a shame on us. A shame on the entire world, not just the Arab world, a shame on everyone and a shame on first of all decision makers who leave human beings behind.”

Hassan’s answer is greeted by applause from many of the journalists present at the press conference.

Egypt’s all-time top goalscorer goes on to call for FIFA and players to take a more active stance for the Palestinian people.

“My message would be to use football as soft power,” he adds. “I urge all of you, the media, all athletes worldwide, regardless of their identities, maybe we can convey a collective message. That is as follows: ‘let the Palestinian people be, let them exist, let them live a life of their own.’ This is normal.”