FIFA delays decision on Israel’s suspension until after Paris Olympics

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FIFA has postponed its decision on whether to suspend Israel from international soccer, extending the deadline until after the Paris Olympics.

The Palestinian Football Association (PFA) initially proposed that its Israeli counterparts be suspended in May, urging FIFA to take action similar to past suspensions of nations like Russia and Apartheid-era South Africa.

FIFA’s decision to delay comes after requests for more time to submit their arguments from the PFA and Israeli Football Association.

The PFA, who delivered a passionate speech at FIFA’s annual congress in Bangkok, highlighted the ongoing conflict in Gaza and alleged violations of FIFA regulations by Israeli teams operating in Palestinian territories.

Led by president Jibril Rajoub, the PFA had called for Israel’s suspension, citing the impact of Israel’s military operations in Gaza — which Rajoub claimed to have resulted in the deaths of more than 250 Palestinian athletes and the destruction of several football stadiums.

In response, Shino Moshe Zuares, president of the Israeli Football Association, dismissed Rajoub’s demand as a “cynical political and hostile attempt to harm Israeli football”. Zuares highlighted that his nation has also suffered due to ongoing hostilities, with a number of Israelis still held hostage.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino had initially promised an urgent review, scheduling an extraordinary council meeting for July. However, on Thursday, world football’s governing body announced that the independent legal assessment of the situation will now be shared with its council members by August 31, 2024.

“Following requests for extension from both parties to submit their respective positions, duly granted by FIFA, more time is needed to conclude this process with due care and completeness,” FIFA said in a post on X.

FIFA has expressed gratitude for the cooperation from both member associations and reiterated its commitment to a fair and comprehensive review. The delay ensures that any decision on Israel’s suspension will be made only after the Paris Olympics, where Israel will be allowed to participate in the men’s football tournament.

Israel started its offensive in Gaza in response to the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, when more than 1,000 Israelis were killed. Both sides have since attracted criticism during the war that has followed.

Israel is only scheduled to compete at the men’s soccer tournament at the Olympics and will not take part in the women’s event. The team has been drawn in Group D, alongside Japan, Paraguay and Mali.

(AFP via Getty Images)

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