FIFA has ruled out suspending Israel despite pressure following UN genocide findings.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has indicated that world football’s governing body will not sanction Israel, despite mounting calls to act following a United Nations report accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.
Speaking after a FIFA council meeting on Thursday, Infantino said football should focus on promoting “peace and unity” rather than engaging in geopolitical disputes. “FIFA cannot solve geopolitical problems, but it can and must promote football around the world,” he said.
He acknowledged the human toll of conflict, adding: “I suffer when I see children suffer. I cry when I see mothers crying, whether it’s in Gaza… anywhere in the world.”
The stance contrasts sharply with FIFA’s ongoing ban on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. UEFA had considered excluding Israel from European competitions but has paused the move.
Some European teams have asked to avoid Israeli opponents in World Cup qualifying, while the US has vowed to oppose any attempt to bar Israel from competing.