UEFA May Suspend Israel Over Gaza War
UEFA Faces Pressure to Suspend Israel Amid Gaza War Report
European football’s governing body UEFA is preparing for an emergency vote next week on whether to suspend Israel from its competitions, following growing political pressure and international calls for action.
In a letter cited by Anadolu Agency, Turkish football official Ibrahim Hacıosmanoğlu criticized the silence of sports institutions, saying:
“Despite positioning themselves as defenders of civic values and peace, the sporting world and football institutions have remained silent for far too long. Guided by these values, we feel compelled to raise our deep concern regarding the unlawful and inhumane situation being carried out by the State of Israel in Gaza and its surrounding areas.”
The push comes days after a UN Commission of Inquiry concluded in a report that Israel had committed genocide during the Gaza war and urged its suspension from international football. Israel rejected the findings as “scandalous,” insisting its military campaign targets Hamas militants behind the October 7, 2023, attack that killed 1,200 people in Israel.
Health authorities in Gaza say more than 65,000 people have been killed in the enclave during the offensive, leaving behind widespread destruction and hunger.
Despite mounting scrutiny, the Israel Football Association said on Thursday it has no signs that UEFA is preparing a suspension. “We don’t have any indications that we are facing such an act,” a spokesperson told Reuters, adding the national team was focused on its upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Israel has competed under UEFA since the early 1990s, after being removed from the Asian Football Confederation in 1974 when several nations refused to play against them. Israel’s national team was integrated into European football in 1991, with its clubs joining UEFA competitions a year later. By 1994, Israel became a full member of the organization.
Mutib Khalid is a skilled content writer and digital marketer with a knack for crafting compelling narratives and optimizing digital strategies. Excel in creating engaging content that drives results and enhances online presence. Passionate about blending creativity with data-driven approaches, Mutib Khalid helps brands connect with their audience and achieve their goals.
