Couple Hendy Desilien

On 17 May, the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) called for the immediate suspension of the Israeli Football Association (IFA) at the FIFA Congress. The request, motivated by accusations of human rights violations, sparked a wave of reactions in the football world and beyond. Initially scheduled to be discussed on 20 July, the request was postponed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino to a later date. The arguments of both parties will finally be considered at the FIFA Council meeting scheduled for 31 August.

The PFA accuses the IFA of failing to respect FIFA statutes, particularly those relating to human rights and humanitarian objectives. These accusations are supported by an independent report, published this week, by lawyers specialising in international law and human rights. The report claims that the Israeli FA is in breach of several of FIFA statutes and recommends its immediate suspension.

Among the violations cited, the report highlights the IFA’s involvement in activities in the occupied West Bank, which contravenes FIFA’s principles of neutrality and sporting integrity. In addition, the report criticizes the treatment of Palestinian players, who often face severe movement restrictions, affecting their ability to train and compete internationally.

In response to the accusations, the IFA denied any breach of FIFA’s statutes and requested more time to prepare its defence. Infantino therefore decided to postpone the decision, explaining that both parties should be given the opportunity to present full and well-prepared arguments. The postponement was criticised by some observers, who believe that FIFA should have acted more quickly in the face of such serious accusations.

In the meantime, the Israeli national team continues to participate in international competitions. It will be allowed to compete in the Olympic football tournament, scheduled for July 24 to August 9, and the first team will play a Nations League match against Belgium on September 6. This match will be relocated to Hungary, following Brussels’ refusal to host the event, a decision motivated by security and international political considerations.

This complex context highlights the political and diplomatic tensions surrounding football in this region of the world. The PFA’s request for the suspension of the IFA is not only a sporting issue, but also a symbol of the strained relations between Israel and Palestine. The FIFA Council on 31 August will therefore be a crucial moment, not only for the federations concerned, but also for FIFA itself, which will have to demonstrate its commitment to its own principles and statutes.

The postponement of FIFA’s decision on the IFA suspension continues to cast a shadow of uncertainty over international football. As competitions continue, pressure is mounting on FIFA to make a firm and fair decision. Expectations are high for the FIFA Council on 31 August, where a final decision could have significant implications not only for the affected associations, but for the entire football world. How FIFA handles this matter will be closely scrutinised and could well define the future of its role as arbiter of international conflicts in the sport.