The initiative aimed to offer families, especially children, a brief escape from the realities of war.

Egypt’s matches drew large crowds, reflecting the team’s long-standing popularity among many Palestinians in Gaza who have long shared cultural, emotional and political ties with their neighbors.

Videos of children and families gathered around giant screens among destroyed buildings spread widely online, offering rare scenes of celebration amid the conflict.

Al-Wahidi was killed just hours before one of those screenings, Egypt’s round of 16 match against Argentina, deepening the feeling of loss among many Palestinians.

“He was not simply an aid worker on a humanitarian committee,” wrote activist Mohammed Hmeid, who documented al-Wahidi’s work. “It was a door to hope that opened every day for the displaced and those who had lost everything.”

“Everyone who knew him speaks of his kindness, integrity and generosity,” he added.

“In Gaza, not even those who dedicate their lives to helping others are saved. But good works cannot be killed. They live in the hearts of the people.”

Al-Wahidi’s death comes as humanitarian workers in Gaza continue to face significant risks.

By the end of April, the UN had recorded the deaths of at least 593 of them since the war began, including eight since Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire 10 months ago.

The Israeli military launched a campaign in Gaza in response to the unprecedented Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, in which some 1,200 people were killed and 251 taken hostage.

At least 73,118 people have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza since then, according to the Hamas-run territory’s Health Ministry, whose figures are considered reliable by the UN.