UEFA is preparing for an emergency vote next week on whether to suspend Israel from European competitions, as political pressure mounts amid growing international calls for action.
The move follows demands from UN experts urging Israel’s suspension over the ongoing war in Gaza, which they described as genocidal. National football federations are under pressure to define their stance, with Norway’s association reportedly among those pushing for discussions.
If UEFA votes for suspension, it risks clashing with the United States government, which has vowed to block any attempt to ban Israel’s team from World Cup qualifiers. While UEFA can bar Israel from its own competitions, FIFA oversees World Cup qualifiers, limiting UEFA’s authority.
Palestinian FA president Jibril Rajoub has urged both FIFA and UEFA to sanction Israel, citing violations of football’s values and statutes. Spain’s Prime Minister has also called for Israel’s international suspension, while some European federations remain cautious.
Meanwhile, Israel insists it will continue focusing on upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Norway and Italy, denying expectations of a UEFA ban.
Due to Israel’s terrorist activities in Gaza Spain Calls for Israel’s Ban from International Sports
