An Israeli professional footballer has sparked widespread controversy after being seen actively participating in military operations in southern Lebanon.
Menashe Zalka, the 35-year-old captain of Hapoel Hadera, appeared in a viral video circulating on social media, where he is reportedly seen firing a machine gun and throwing grenades while wearing military uniform.
According to reports by Al Jazeera, the footage was originally broadcast by Israel’s Channel 14. It shows Zalka operating in a residential area in southern Lebanon as part of the Israeli army’s Paratroopers Brigade reserve unit. The report also states that he had previously served for extended periods during military operations in Gaza.
The incident has triggered strong reactions from the international football community. The Palestine Football Association (PFA), along with many football fans worldwide, has called on FIFA to impose sanctions on both the player and the Israeli Football Association.
PFA Vice President Susan Shalabi condemned the act as unacceptable, arguing that a professional footballer directly participating in armed conflict—particularly in civilian areas—constitutes a serious violation of FIFA’s ethical and disciplinary codes.
Earlier on March 19, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee fined the Israeli Football Association 150,000 Swiss francs for breaching anti-discrimination rules but stopped short of imposing a ban. Critics have since accused football governing bodies, including UEFA, of applying double standards. They point out that Russia faced swift suspension following its invasion of Ukraine, while no comparable action has been taken against Israel.
Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Zalka’s involvement in military operations has deeply divided global opinion. While some Israeli media outlets portray him as a national hero, many international observers and football supporters have labeled his actions as inappropriate and potentially unlawful.
The controversy continues to intensify, placing renewed pressure on FIFA to clarify its stance on players participating in active conflicts.
