Israel's rocket strike on Iran and the Islamic Republic's response have caused many casualties, not only among the military but also among civilians. Dozens of deaths and many injuries have been reported on both sides. The escalating military conflict has also affected the world of sports.
One paddle tennis player died
According to Iranian media, Parsa Mansour, a member of the country's paddle tennis team, died on June 13 as a result of fire opened from Israel. He was fatally injured on the street while returning home from training. The country's tennis federation reported this on its Telegram channel: "The tennis federation expresses its regret over these tragic events and wishes the deceased's family patience and strength." Sport24.az, citing Tehrantimes.com, reports that Mansour was one of the athletes who promised great prospects in Iranian paddle tennis.
National football team star unable to leave the country
Mehdi Taremi, a football player for Inter and the Iranian national team, was supposed to join the team in the USA for the Intercontinental Club World Cup. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the football player arrived at Tehran airport but was forced to return home due to rocket attacks. As a result, the Italian club will have to play the match against Monterrey without him. "We hope that Mehdi will be able to join us as soon as possible," Inter's press service reported. The Milanese are trying to find a way to bring Taremi to the USA. But the military conflict is creating serious obstacles for international flights. It is not yet known when Mehdi will be able to fly to the tournament.
"Hapoel" coach's house damaged
Israeli residents have also faced major problems. As a result of Iranian rocket fire, the house of Dimitris Itoudis, the coach of Tel Aviv "Hapoel" basketball team, was damaged. One of the rockets hit the building where the Greek specialist lived. Fortunately, Itoudis was in his homeland - Greece - at that time.