Post by : Naveen Mittal
The United States government has confirmed it will actively oppose any attempts to bar Israel from competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This announcement comes amid rising international calls for sporting sanctions over Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
A U.S. State Department spokesperson said on Thursday, "We will absolutely work to fully stop any effort to attempt to ban Israel’s national football team from the World Cup." Key votes on this issue are reportedly expected next week.
The controversy follows a United Nations commission of inquiry concluding that Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. This has led to growing pressure from various international figures and organizations to suspend Israel from global sporting events, including FIFA competitions.
Reports indicate that a majority of UEFA’s 20-member executive committee supports banning Israel from its European competitions. Supporters cite inconsistencies in football’s response, comparing Israel’s situation to Russia, which was banned by UEFA and FIFA in 2022 after invading Ukraine.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also urged sporting sanctions, stating: "Until the barbarity ends, neither Russia nor Israel should be in any international competition."
Although UEFA can suspend Israel from European competitions, it cannot block Israel from World Cup qualifiers under FIFA’s jurisdiction. With most 2026 World Cup matches scheduled in the U.S., and considering FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s ties with former U.S. President Donald Trump—a strong ally of Israel—the likelihood of a ban remains uncertain.
Palestinian Football Association President Jibril Rajoub has called for Israel’s exclusion from the World Cup, asserting that Israel has violated FIFA’s principles and statutes. He insists that both UEFA and FIFA must enforce sanctions to maintain the integrity of international football.
As the debate unfolds, the international sports and political community is watching closely. The situation highlights the challenges FIFA and UEFA face in balancing sports with ethical and political responsibilities, particularly amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza.
US foreign policy, Israel football, FIFA, UEFA, World Cup 2026, sports sanctions, international relations, Gaza conflict, human rights, global diplomacy
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