In a surprising turn of events, German football club Mainz 05 has decided to terminate the contract of player Anwar El Ghazi due to his controversial social media posts regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This decision comes after El Ghazi's previous suspension and subsequent return to practice earlier in the week.

The official statement released by Mainz on Friday stated that El Ghazi's contract was terminated because of "comments and posts from the player on social media," although further details were not provided. The football club had initially suspended the 28-year-old player for a since-deleted post regarding the conflict in the Middle East.

Following his termination, El Ghazi took to social media and expressed his stance, saying, "Stand for what is right, even if it means standing alone." He further added, "The loss of my livelihood is nothing when compared to the hell being unleashed on the innocent and vulnerable in Gaza."

El Ghazi had previously attempted to clarify his statements in a social media post on October 27, where he emphasized that he stood for peace and humanity for all. Mainz, in response, lifted his suspension, giving him a second chance. The club mentioned that he had spoken out against terrorism and did not question Israel's right to exist.

However, a recent social media post by El Ghazi on Wednesday indicated that the club had issued its statement without his permission. He stated, "I do not regret or have any remorse for my position," reaffirming his stance for humanity and the oppressed.

The player also condemned the killing of innocent civilians in Palestine and Israel, stating that there can never be any justification for the death of over 3,500 children in Gaza in the last three weeks. El Ghazi's controversial social media posts have now led German prosecutors to accuse him of "disturbing public peace by condoning criminal acts in conjunction with incitement to hatred."

The termination of Anwar El Ghazi's contract has sparked debate and further discussions about the boundaries of social media usage for professional athletes. While some argue in favor of freedom of expression, others question the appropriateness of sharing such sensitive opinions publicly.

As of now, Mainz 05 has taken a firm stance by terminating El Ghazi's contract, leaving the future of the player's football career uncertain.