Mesut Ozil Sparks Controversy with Pro-Palestine Post on Social Media

Former Arsenal star Mesut Ozil has ignited a firestorm of controversy with a recent post on social media, which appears to show a map of Israel with the country’s name crossed out and replaced with Palestine.

The 35-year-old footballer, who has been an outspoken supporter of Palestine, has been accused of denying the existence of Israel as a state. This is not the first time Ozil has sparked controversy with his views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In October, he called for an end to the violence in Gaza, expressing his desire to “pray for humanity” and “pray for peace.”

Ozil’s recent post, which has since been deleted, featured a map of Israel with a large red cross through the country’s name, and the word “Palestine” underlined in bold letters. The post has sparked outrage in Germany, with some accusing Ozil of promoting anti-Semitic views.

Mesut Ozil appeared to post a now-deleted map showing Israel’s name crossed out and replaced with Palestine

Christian Democratic Union politician Julia Klockner has demanded that Ozil return his Silver Laurel Leaf award, which he received as a member of Germany’s 2010 World Cup-winning squad. The president of Maccabi Germany, a Jewish sports association, has also condemned Ozil’s post as “anti-Israeli” and has called on the German football federation to distance itself from the former player.

Ozil has previously attracted controversy over a tattoo which appeared to reference far-right extremist group the Grey Wolves. He has also been accused of supporting far-right Turkish nationalism organisation the Grey Wolves.

Ozil (right) previously attracted controversy over a tattoo which appeared to reference far-right extremist group the Grey Wolves

Ozil has not represented Germany internationally since 2018, citing “racism and disrespect” he faced over his Turkish heritage. He retired from professional football in March 2023.

The controversy surrounding Ozil’s post has sparked a heated debate about freedom of speech, politics, and sports. While some have defended Ozil’s right to express his opinions, others have condemned his views as inflammatory and divisive.

Mail Sport has contacted Ozil’s representatives for comment.

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Mesut Ozil appears to share incendiary map of Israel with the country’s name crossed out and replaced with Palestine on social media ‘before deleting controversial post’