Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa gives impassioned speech about war in Israel after Hamas attack
Following the Miami Dolphins' victory on Sunday over the Carolina Panthers, Tua Tagovailoa stepped up to the podium to speak with reporters about the game. However, after answering just one question, the quarterback paused his press conference and spoke about the war in Israel after the terrorist attacks by Hamas. Here is what he said: […]
Following the Miami Dolphins' victory on Sunday over the Carolina Panthers, Tua Tagovailoa stepped up to the podium to speak with reporters about the game. However, after answering just one question, the quarterback paused his press conference and spoke about the war in Israel after the terrorist attacks by Hamas.
Here is what he said:
"I kind of want to also just bring to the attention, like I didn't really realize how bad things were in Israel. And just wanted to bring to the attention for those who don't necessarily understand things that are going on, that it really is bad. And if you don't understand, if you go on google, you look, you search, and you read about what's going on in this world, this world needs prayer. I don't know what we've come to, but just my thoughts, my prayers are out with those people in Israel. I know there is the Ukraine and Russia war still going on as well and I just wanted to bring notice that although we have the freedom to do this here, play football and be able to have the freedom to do these things that, to come back into reality and think that's where we all are here in this world. So, I just want to bring that to the attention and hopefully we all come together and can pray for the kids, the children, the wives, the women, and the men that are putting themselves out there everyday for those unfortunate events that are happening right now."
The Dolphins were one of a number of teams that posted on social media, showing their support for Israel. The league has also taken a stance, putting out there own post and also announcing that the teams will hold a moment of silence prior to all Week 6 games in response to the attack in Israel.
This came after thousands of rockets that came from the Gaza Strip and landed in Israel on the morning of Saturday, Oct. 7. While that was happening, Hamas terrorists went into Israeli territory, killing hundreds of civilians and soldiers, and taking many hostages.
One of the deadliest attacks occurred at a music festival near the Israel-Gaza border, leaving at least 260 dead and many captured.
In response to these attacks, Israel has formally declared war on Hamas, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu telling the country to prepare for "a long and difficult war.” They have responded with a barrage on Gaza.
Israel's Minister of Defense has also ordered the "complete siege" of Gaza, cutting off food, fuel, and water along with electricity.
Hamas' attacks last weekend claimed the lives of more than 1,400 people in Israel. Among those were 30 Americans, while 13 others remain unaccounted for.
In Gaza, 2,808 people have been killed, while efforts continue to try and find ways to get innocent civilians out. Israel has since reported that hundreds of the dead in Gaza are Hamas members.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in Israel, working closely with Prime Minister Netanyahu and showing his support for the longtime ally. During his visit, he was forced to shelter in a bunker amid air raid sirens.
President Biden is now scheduled to go to Israel on Wednesday.
Israel is currently preparing for a ground invasion with 360,000 military reservists being called up for duty.