FIFA Rejects Israel Ban Amid UN Genocide Allegations, Upholds Russia Suspension

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has firmly stated that the global football body will not ban Israel from international competition despite growing calls and a UN commission's conclusion that Israel committed genocide in Gaza. Infantino emphasized that FIFA's role is to promote peace and unity through football, not to solve geopolitical conflicts, distinguishing Israel's situation from Russia's ongoing ban due to the war in Ukraine. UEFA, which includes Israeli teams, had considered banning Israel but put those plans on hold following U.S. President Donald Trump's peace initiative, supported by several countries, aimed at resolving the Gaza conflict. Infantino, a close ally of Trump, acknowledged the human suffering caused by conflicts worldwide but underscored football's humanitarian and cultural values as a unifying force. While some European teams have resisted playing Israeli teams, FIFA and UEFA have avoided formal action, reflecting the complex political pressures and ongoing peace efforts. The issue remains sensitive, with FIFA conducting legal reviews and discussions but prioritizing football's role as a platform for unity rather than direct political intervention.