UEFA May Suspend Israel Amid Gaza Conflict

UEFA May Suspend Israel Amid Gaza Conflict UEFA May Suspend Israel Amid Gaza Conflict
Soccer Football - Champions League - Knockout Phase Playoff - First Leg - Celtic v Bayern Munich - Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain - February 12, 2025 A Palestine flag is seen as Celtic fans display a banner stating 'show Israel the red card' amid a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is reportedly preparing to vote on whether to suspend Israel’s membership in response to the ongoing war in Gaza, according to the Associated Press.

Anonymous sources told the agency that a majority of UEFA’s 20-member executive committee is expected to support a suspension, which would bar Israeli clubs and national teams from European competitions. The decision could come just two weeks before Israel is scheduled to play World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Norway and Italy.

UEFA May Suspend Israel Amid Gaza Conflict

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It remains uncertain whether FIFA, world football’s governing body, would back such a move. Observers note FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s close relationship with former US President Donald Trump, whose administration played a key role in ensuring the 2026 World Cup—co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico—will run smoothly, including managing visas for players and fans.

The potential vote follows growing international pressure over the conflict in Gaza and calls from some European football figures for Israel’s suspension.

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  • Abdullahi Jimoh

    Abdullahi Jimoh is a multimedia journalist and digital content creator with over a decade's experience in writing, communications, and marketing across Africa and the UK.

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