Hossam Hassan says Palestine message reflected his human convictions

Egypt manager Hossam Hassan says he would raise the Palestine flag again if given the chance, after being honoured by Turkey’s ambassador to Cairo for his support of the Palestinian cause during the 2026 World Cup.

Saleh Mutlu Sen presented Hassan with the recognition following Egypt’s positive results at the tournament and what was described as the coach’s unprecedented support for Palestine.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Hassan said displaying the flag and discussing the situation in Palestine on the World Cup stage had been a source of pride.

“Raising the flag of Palestine and speaking about the Palestinian cause at the World Cup is a source of pride for me. I acted out of a purely humanitarian motive,” he said.

Hassan added that he had no regrets about the decision and would repeat it if the circumstances arose again.

“If time went back, I would repeat what I did, because I did not insult anyone. I only spoke about a humanitarian issue that should receive the world’s attention,” he said.

The Egypt manager also offered a message of continued solidarity with the Palestinian people.

“God willing, God will grant Palestine victory. They are our people and we stand behind them. God willing, we will try as much as possible to support them in any way,” Hassan said.

Hassan’s comments came as he was officially recognised by the Turkish ambassador, with the ceremony also highlighting Egypt’s performances at the most recent World Cup.

Mohamed Salah’s move to Trabzonspor

During the interview, Hassan also discussed Mohamed Salah’s move to Trabzonspor and drew comparisons between the Egyptian and Turkish people.

He said the two nations shared qualities including strong passion and an energetic spirit.

“The Turkish people are close to the Egyptian character. The Egyptian people are the same in that they have enthusiasm and spirit,” Hassan said.

Hassan believes Salah’s transfer to the Turkish league will benefit both the player and the competition.

“Salah is a big name and an addition to the Turkish league, just as the Turkish league is an addition to Salah,” he said.

The Egypt manager predicted that the forward would make a significant impact in Turkey, having already left his mark in other leagues.

“Salah will leave a big mark in the Turkish league, just as he did in England and Switzerland,” Hassan said.

The ceremony involving Sen and Hassan was also shared in a video post, which highlighted the Egypt manager’s World Cup results and his public backing for Palestine. Hassan’s interview with Anadolu focused on his decision to raise the Palestinian flag and speak about the cause, with the coach making clear that he viewed the gesture as a humanitarian statement rather than an attempt to offend anyone.