FIFA Launches Investigations into Palestinian Claims Against Israel Amid Gaza Conflict
FIFA has decided to launch two investigations into allegations raised by the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) against Israel.
These claims were submitted back in May, when the PFA called for Israel's suspension from international football, accusing the Israel Football Association (IFA) of complicity in human rights violations and allowing teams from illegal Israeli settlements in Palestinian territory to compete in its league.
What will the investigations look into?
The first investigation will look into allegations of discrimination raised by the PFA, which argues that Israel's football practices violate FIFA’s regulations, and the second will examine whether Israeli teams playing in Palestinian territories violate international law. Both investigations are being conducted by FIFA’s disciplinary and governance committees.
PFA says Gaza war has severely impacted Palestinian football
The PFA claims that the ongoing war in Gaza has severely impacted Palestinian football. According to the PFA, 92 Palestinian players have been killed, leagues have been suspended, and numerous football facilities destroyed. The PFA also noted that the national team is forced to play World Cup qualifiers abroad due to the conflict.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasised the need for peace, stating, "The ongoing violence in the region confirms that, above all considerations, we need peace."
The FIFA Council is seeking an impartial legal evaluation before making any decisions about sanctions.
Israel Football Association dismiss allegations
Israel’s Football Association has dismissed the allegations, calling them a “cynical political attempt” to harm Israeli football. IFA president Shino Moshe Zuares has consistently defended Israel’s football operations, accusing the Palestinian association of mixing politics with sports.
This is not the first time FIFA has been asked to address this issue. Previous discussions on the matter were postponed, most recently in August, with FIFA citing the need for a thorough review of the situation. Despite calls for immediate sanctions, so far FIFA has refrained from taking decisive action as it waits for the results of its investigations.
