MLS’ leading goal scorer Tai Baribo, family stuck in Israel amid Iran conflict

Major League Soccer’s leading scorer and his family have been stuck in Israel since conflict in the region broke out between the Jewish state and Iran. 

Philadelphia Union forward Tai Baribo has been unable to return to the United States because of the closure of airports in Israel, which has faced missile strikes from Iran after the nation struck nuclear and military sites inside Iran last week, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported. 

It’s unclear where in Israel Baribo is, but in a statement to the outlet, the Union said the club has remained in “constant communication” with him and his return to the United States “remains fluid” amid Israel’s airspace being closed. 

Israel’s main international airport has remained closed during the ongoing tension with Iran. 

“The Union are in constant communication with Tai and are actively working to bring him back to Philadelphia safely,” the Union said. “With the airspace currently closed, the situation remains fluid, and we are exploring all alternative options. Our priority is Tai’s safety and well-being. We will share more updates if and when it is appropriate.”

Baribo has been away from the Union since May 31 to play for Israel’s national team in a pair of international matches, including a World Cup qualifying game and a friendly in the month of June. 

The Union forward had a calf injury flare-up and kept him out of the two international games and led him to return to Israel, in part to rehab the injury and to attend a meeting at the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem to handle his green card application, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported.

Pennsylvania soccer writer José Roberto Nuñez posted screen recordings of Instagram stories posted by Linoy Barlev, Tai Baribo’s wife, showing their current situation in Israel. 

In one, it’s a photo with the caption, “This time it was a few minutes from us. Another crazy night. Take care of yourself.”

She also posted a video of Baribo huddled inside a windowless room along with other people. 

Baribo currently leads the MLS in goals with 13 over the course of 16 matches for the Union, with his last goal coming back on May 24 during a 3-3 draw with Inter Miami.