Richmond premiership player Bachar Houli had to be convinced by AFL figureheads to delete a controversial pro-Palestine video he posted on social media.
The video – titled ‘A genocide is occurring in Palestine’ – was initially posted by rugby great Sonny Bill Williams, with Houli reposting it via his own platforms.
The Herald Sun reports Richmond asked the 35-year-old to remove the post, but he refused.
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AFL intervention was sought amid fears the video would incite unrest.
The report says AFL commissioner Paul Bassat and ex-AFL diversity manager Ali Fahour were both asked to make contact with Houli.
Jewish community member and Richmond fan Paul Naphtali also messaged Houli.
“To Bachar’s credit, when I messaged him he called me, he listened and he engaged about the contents of the video,” Naphtali said.
“I would describe the post as misinformed and dangerous. Bachar has a big platform, lots and lots of supporters, but we all make mistakes.”
He added: “I sent him the information he asked for on Sunday morning and by Sunday evening the video was taken down.
“I imagine a number of people would have contacted him about it. I know he sought out other Jewish perspectives to see how people felt. To his credit, he listened.
“It is an example of why engagement and dialogue is so important.”
Houli deleted the video on Sunday and posted a statement.
“As many would know I am a man of faith and peace, and have always tried to live my life through the Islamic values of Respect, Peace and Love which has been taught through our beloved prophet Muhammad (PBUH),” it reads.
“I will always advocate for inclusion and bringing people together. The last couple of weeks have taken a heavy toll on us all and I want to remind people that I do NOT condone killings of ANY INNOCENT people regardless of their faith or culture.
“I remind my fellow Australians that any racism, discrimination or acts of violence to innocent people is totally unacceptable.
“I have many friends from different faiths who are against this war and I stand in solidarity with them and pray for peace and justice for all those oppressed around the world. I pray for peace, love and humanity. Ameen.”
