FIFA has faced criticism from Palestinian football players, officials, and fans for not taking action to sanction and ban Israel amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The ongoing crisis has resulted in the deaths of more than 31,000 people, including 13,000 children, according to health officials.
The situation in Gaza has led to increased calls for FIFA to address the matter, drawing comparisons to FIFA’s quick decision to ban Russia and Russian football clubs following their invasion of Ukraine two years ago. However, FIFA has remained silent on the matter despite Russia’s strong position in the playoffs for the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The playoff match between Iceland and Israel was played on neutral ground in Budapest, Hungary due to the ongoing conflict. Despite receiving requests for comment from Al Jazeera, FIFA has yet to respond to the inquiries. The lack of action from FIFA has only intensified the plea for the governing body to take a stand against Israel’s football team amidst the war in Gaza.
A football fan held up a sign outside Etihad Stadium in Manchester City, England calling for action against Israel in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The sentiment among Palestinian football players, officials, and fans is one of frustration and disappointment at FIFA’s inaction in addressing the situation with Israel amidst the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
