FIFA Council to Decide on Fate of Israel Football Association
World soccer governing body FIFA is set to convene a special council meeting in the next two months to deliberate on whether the Israel Football Association (IFA) should face suspension from international competition. This decision follows a call from the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) to ban Israel due to alleged violations of FIFA rules amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Independent Legal Expertise to Analyze Situation
FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced the formation of a legal team to assess the claims made by the PFA and ensure that FIFA statutes are upheld. The results of this analysis will be presented to all FIFA Council members ahead of an extraordinary meeting scheduled to take place before July 20, where the proposal to suspend Israel from international matches will be addressed.
Emotional Pleas and Calls for Action
Prior to the announcement, PFA President Jibril Rajoub urged FIFA to act swiftly, citing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In response, Israeli FA President Shino Moshe Zuares defended the association, emphasizing its commitment to FIFA and UEFA regulations.
FIFA President’s Message of Peace
In his closing remarks, President Infantino expressed shock at the events in Israel and Gaza, emphasizing the need for peace in the region. The decision on the IFA’s suspension remains pending as FIFA navigates the complex geopolitical landscape of international football.
