In the midst of the bloody conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has already claimed over 4,000 lives, a surprising alliance has emerged between fighters. Floyd Mayweather, the former boxing champion, took a significant step in supporting the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
While there has been an outpouring of support all across the world for Israel in its fight against Hamas, which initiated the war by launching an assault on the Jewish state on October 7, Mayweather decided to go beyond words and take action. Over the weekend, he sent his private jet, called “Air Mayweather,” to Israel loaded up with over 5,000 pounds of provisions for Israeli soldiers.
The cargo included food, protective vests, and other important supplies for IDF personnel.
Members of the IDF recently showed their gratitude to Mayweather by initiating a video call with the former world champion. Members of the IDF’s Yahalom Unit, a special forces anti-terrorism outfit, conversed with the boxer.
"Floyd, how are you doing? We are here from the special forces unit, Yahalom. We want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts during those dark times and thank you very much. We love you," one of the soldiers said to Mayweather.
The boxer responded with a brief pep talk: “We only want peace in Israel. Thank you guys for standing up for your country.” Watch:
Apparently, Mayweather is a staunch supporter of the Jewish state. On Sunday, he participated in a pro-Israeli march in Century City, walking with thousands of others who support Israel. He has also made several posts on social media affirming his support for Israel and the IDF as it fights to destroy Hamas and safeguard the citizenry.
In a post on Instagram, Mayweather wrote:
I stand with Israel against the Hamas terrorists. Hamas does not represent the people of Palestine but are a terrorist group that are attacking innocent lives! This is not a time for politics. This is a time for safety first and foremost.
The boxer connected with Israelis last year when he made a visit to the country:
Mayweather’s close connection with Israel began last year, when the former professional boxer made a surprise visit. He went to the Western Wall and strolled through the city's Machane Yehuda Market. The image he posted in support of Israel on social media was one from that visit and he later posted another message showing his support.
Of course, not everyone is happy about Mayweather supporting Israel as it fights to destroy Hamas. Some on social media on both sides of the political spectrum took issue with his act of kindness.
Floyd Mayweather is reportedly sending aid to IDF soldiers in Israel.
— Sameera Khan (@SameeraKhan) October 11, 2023
He has more compassion for a foreign army than he does for his own countrymen.
Shame on you, Floyd Mayweather. https://t.co/3gUeAmOebr
Floyd Mayweather woke up 15 hours ago and decided to be a bitch. There are terrorists in Hamas, yes, but why acting as if Israel isn't a state of terrorists? Bro saying "god bless Israel" as if he doesn't know that Israel basically occupied Palestine in 1948. pic.twitter.com/JwCVILzQdO
— LionHeart (@iamvaiiin) October 10, 2023
Nevertheless, haters aside, Mayweather decided to stand on his principles regardless of what others thought. It is clear that the IDF soldiers who received the much-needed supplies and were more than grateful for the generosity.
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