FIFA Delays Decision on Palestinian Soccer Bid

FIFA has once again postponed its decision regarding the Palestine Football Association's (PFA) request to suspend the Israel Football Association (IFA) due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, now set for review in October. The PFA's proposal, submitted in May, alleges that the IFA is complicit in violations of international law and discriminates against Arab players, while the IFA has denied these claims. FIFA previously planned to address the issue at a council meeting in July but has delayed this to allow for an independent legal assessment, which will now be presented to the council in October. The PFA claims that at least 92 Palestinian players have died, and football infrastructure in the region has been severely impacted. FIFA has not disclosed the details of the legal assessment or the specific date for the October meeting. The PFA is urging FIFA to impose sanctions against Israeli teams as part of its proposals.