In a bold move, the Palestinian football association has demanded the immediate suspension of Israel from FIFA, the global governing body of football. During a meeting in Bangkok, Jibril Rajoub, head of the Palestine Football Association, directly addressed FIFA president Gianni Infantino, stating, “The ball is in your court.” This call for action underscores longstanding tensions between the two nations.
In response, Israel swiftly rebuffed the proposal, denouncing it as “cynical.” Shino Moshe Zuares, chief of the Israel Football Association (IFA), emphasized that the PFA’s initiative was unrelated to the IFA’s activities.
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The outcome of FIFA’s deliberations could have far-reaching implications for the future of football diplomacy in the region. Stay tuned for further developments as this contentious issue unfolds.’
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Infantino announced that FIFA would convene an extraordinary session of its ruling council before July 20. The purpose of this session will be to conduct a thorough legal analysis and determine the appropriate course of action.
Key Points of this News
- Palestinian Demand: The Palestinian Football Association (PFA) calls for the immediate suspension of Israel from FIFA, the global football governing body, during a meeting in Bangkok.
- Rejection by Israel: Israel swiftly rejects the proposal as “cynical,” with the Israel Football Association (IFA) emphasizing that the PFA’s initiative does not relate to the IFA’s activities.
- FIFA Response: FIFA president Gianni Infantino announces that an extraordinary session of the ruling council will be held before July 20 to review the legal analysis and decide on the next steps regarding the PFA’s demand.
