Palestine sent eight athletes to compete in the Paris Olympics 2024 on Sunday in a symbolic gesture of defiance amidst ongoing hardships.
Jibril Rajoub, head of the Palestine Olympic Committee, highlighted the human cost of the genocide, stating that hundreds of athletes have been killed or injured. “This participation is a message of suffering and a call for freedom”, he declared.
The eight athletes will compete in various disciplines, including swimming, athletics, and judo. Notably, Palestinian-American swimmer Valerie Tarazi expressed mixed emotions.
“Competing for Palestine at a time when training facilities are limited is surreal”, she said, acknowledging the challenges faced by athletes in Gaza.
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This marks Palestine’s continued presence in the Olympics since its debut in 1996. However, the death of long-distance runner Majed Abu Marahil due to lack of proper medical care underscores the ongoing struggles Palestinian athletes face.
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