Football Association of Ireland Backs Resolution Urging European Football Ban on Israeli Teams
The Football Association of Ireland has given the green light to present a official proposal to Uefa, demanding the exclusion of Israeli football from continental team and national tournaments.
Basis of the Recommended Ban
The resolution, which was proposed by Dublin club Bohemians, highlighted claimed violations by the IFA of a couple of important Uefa statutes.
- Inability to apply and uphold an proper anti-racism policy.
- Organisation of football teams in disputed territories without the consent of the Palestinian Football Association.
Ballot Results and Future Actions
As stated in an announcement from the FAI, the proposal was backed by 74 votes, with 7 opposed and two abstentions.
The association plans to officially present this motion to the UEFA's decision-making body, asking for the prompt ban of the IFA from European tournaments.
During a special assembly of the FAI, an standard motion was put to delegates. It was approved by a majority.
Earlier Uefa Deliberations
The European body had earlier paused intentions to ban Israeli football at the end of September, following the announcement of a US peace proposal for the region.
While Uefa never officially confirmed contemplating an special session on the issue, plans were believed to be well developed.
International Backdrop
The FAI move comes after similar calls in September from the leaders of Turkish and Norwegian football associations for banning Israel from international competition.
Those requests were issued after UN specialists urged Fifa and Uefa to suspend the Israeli FA, referencing a UN commission of inquiry report that accused Israel of acts of genocide during the Gaza conflict.
The Israeli government has rejected these allegations and labeled the report as scandalous.
Possible Consequences
If European football's authority choose to ban Israel, it would probably create tension with the US administration – co-hosts for the upcoming World Cup – which strongly opposes such an measure.
Even though the European body has the authority to suspend Israeli teams from its tournaments, it might not be able to prevent them from competing in qualification for the World Cup, which falls under Fifa.