World Cup 2026: Egypt coach Hossam Hassan calls for justice for Palestinians ahead of Argentina clash

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan used his pre-match press conference ahead of his side’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Argentina to deliver a strong humanitarian message on the situation in Gaza.

Speaking before Tuesday’s knockout encounter at Atlanta Stadium, Hassan called on the international community to show greater concern for the suffering of Palestinian civilians, saying the humanitarian crisis should not be ignored.

The Egypt coach made the remarks as the Pharaohs prepared for one of the biggest matches in their World Cup campaign against reigning champions Argentina national football team.

“If there is anyone in the world who does not feel the suffering of the Palestinian people, then he is not human. Every human being, whether European, American, Arab or from anywhere in the world, is supposed to feel what is happening to the Palestinian people.”

Hassan criticises international response

Hassan questioned what he described as the unequal global response to humanitarian suffering, arguing that the plight of civilians in Gaza deserves greater international attention.

“When an animal is harmed, animal welfare organizations move to defend it, while we sit in our homes, living in comfortable conditions, eating, drinking, and wearing the best clothes, while the Palestinian people live in the open. Whoever does not feel their suffering is not human.”

The former Egypt international continued by expressing frustration at what he sees as the lack of action from world leaders.

“It’s a disgrace to the whole world, and a disgrace to those in power, to let people like us live in these conditions. Thousands of victims fall as a result of a single bombing of Gaza, yet we do not hear the positions that befit the magnitude of this tragedy from the Western world.”

Appeal for justice

Hassan concluded by calling for justice and support for Palestinians, while referencing FIFA’s public commitment to principles of fairness.

“When a dog in the street is harmed, they demand that the person who harmed it be brought to justice. What about those who kill innocent people in Gaza with missiles every day? The Palestinian people live without homes, shelter, water, or food. We demand life and justice for them, and just as FIFA raises slogans calling for justice, we must also demand their right to life.”

Egypt face Argentina on Tuesday with a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at stake.