Football Association of Ireland Backs Motion Urging Uefa Ban on Israel

Ireland's football governing body has given the green light to submit a formal motion to Uefa, demanding the exclusion of Israel from continental club and international competitions.

Grounds for the Recommended Ban

The resolution, which was put forward by Dublin club Bohemians, cited claimed breaches by the IFA of a couple of important Uefa statutes.

  • Inability to implement and enforce an effective policy against racism.
  • Establishment of clubs in occupied Palestinian territories without the consent of the Palestrian FA.

Vote Outcome and Next Steps

As stated in an official statement from the FAI, the resolution was supported by 74 votes, with 7 against and two abstentions.

The association plans to officially present this motion to the UEFA's decision-making body, seeking the prompt ban of the Israel Football Association from Uefa competitions.

In an extraordinary general meeting of the FAI, an ordinary resolution was put to delegates. It was approved by a majority.

Previous Uefa Considerations

Uefa had earlier put on hold plans to ban Israeli football at the close of last month, following the revealing of Donald Trump's proposed peace plan for the area.

While Uefa never officially confirmed considering an special session on the issue, preparations were believed to be well developed.

International Backdrop

This Irish resolution follows similar calls in September from the heads of Turkish and Norwegian governing bodies for banning Israel from international competition.

These appeals were issued after UN specialists urged world and European football bodies to ban the Israeli FA, citing a UN commission of inquiry report that claimed the country of acts of genocide during the war in Gaza.

The Israeli government has rejected these allegations and described the findings as outrageous.

Possible Consequences

If European football's authority decide to suspend the IFA, it would probably create tension with the US administration – joint hosts for the 2026 World Cup – which is firmly against such an action.

Although the European body has the authority to suspend Israeli teams from European competitions, it may not be able to prevent them from taking part in World Cup qualifiers, which is governed by Fifa.

Fernando Phillips
Fernando Phillips

A seasoned entrepreneur and productivity coach with over a decade of experience in helping individuals maximize their potential and scale their ventures.