MIAMI, FLORIDA: Tua Tagovailoa, the 25-year-old quarterback for the Miami Dolphins, briefly stopped taking questions at a post-game press conference on Sunday, October 15, to speak about the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
This was after the Dolphins moved to 5-1 with a 42-21 victory over the Carolina Panthers.
What did Tua Tagovailoa say about the ongoing Insrael-Hamas conflict?
Tua Tagovailoa started with, "I didn't really realize how bad things were in Israel, and I just want to bring to attention for those who don't necessarily understand things that are going on. 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."
The conflict started when the militant group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 7. Hamas' attack reportedly killed around 1,300 people and since then, the group has taken several people hostage.
In retaliation, Israel launched air strikes in Gaza, killing over 2,500 people, according to the Daily Mail.
The Dolphins quarterback continued, "I don't know what we've come to, but my thoughts, my prayers are with those people in Israel."
He added, "I know there is the Ukraine and Russia war, (which) is still going on as well and I just wanted to bring notice that although we have the freedom here to do this, to play football... (you) come back into reality and think: that's where we all are 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 women, and the men that are putting themselves out there every day for those unfortunate events that are happening right now," concluded Tagovailoa.
Notably, on October 15, Tagovailoa had another strong outing in the win, going 21-31 for 262 yards and three touchdowns.
Internet reacts to Tua Tagovailoa's statement about Israel-Hamas conflict
Soon after a clip of Tua Tagovailoa's statement about the Israel-Hamas conflict was posted on X (formerly Twitter), fans rushed to show their love and appreciation.
One stated, "A true leader, this gentleman," while another added, "THATS MY QUARTERBACK."
A person noted, "Tua’s parents raised a solid young man."
"I’m a die-hard Lions fan for the past 20 years, but mannn Tua…you just got yourself a new Fins fan! Thank you so much for your prayers and for raising awareness using your platform," expressed another.
One more said, "Amen, brother. That was what needed to be heard. U said a mouthful. Prayer is what they really need. Also, here in the US, too."
