Nidhish Waghmare
The United States has declared it will oppose any effort to ban Israel from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A State Department spokesperson told BBC Sport, “We will absolutely work to fully stop any effort to attempt to ban Israel’s national soccer team.” The tournament is set to be co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada.
UN Report Sparks Global Reaction
A recent UN commission report accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, prompting calls from human rights experts and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez for sporting sanctions. Sanchez stated Israel should be treated like Russia, which was banned from international football after its invasion of Ukraine.
UEFA Faces Mounting Pressure
UEFA, which oversees World Cup qualifiers in Europe, is reportedly under pressure to act. While no meeting is officially scheduled, sources suggest discussions on Israel’s suspension could happen soon. Israel are currently third in their qualifying group, with upcoming matches against Norway and Italy.
Protests and Fan Backlash Intensify
Pro-Palestinian protests have erupted across Europe, including at football matches. PAOK fans displayed banners reading “Stop the genocide” during a Europa League match against Maccabi Tel Aviv. Over 1,900 signatures were submitted to UEFA demanding Israel’s suspension, with activists saying “no fair play with representatives of genocide.”
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