🔗 Share this article FAI Backs Motion Seeking European Football Ban on Israel Ireland's football governing body has given the green light to present a official proposal to European football's governing body, demanding the exclusion of Israel from all European club and international competitions. Grounds for the Proposed Ban This motion, which was put forward by Irish side Bohemians, highlighted claimed violations by the Israel Football Association of a couple of key European football regulations. Inability to apply and uphold an proper policy against racism. Organisation of clubs in occupied Palestinian territories without the approval of the Palestinian Football Association. Vote Outcome and Future Actions According to an official statement from the FAI, the proposal was backed by 74 votes, with seven against and 2 abstentions. They intends to formally submit this request to the Uefa executive committee, seeking the immediate suspension of the IFA from European tournaments. During a special assembly of the FAI, an ordinary resolution was posed to delegates. It was approved by a majority. Previous European Considerations Uefa had previously paused intentions to exclude Israel at the end of September, following the announcement of a US peace proposal for the region. While Uefa never officially confirmed considering an special session on the matter, preparations were understood to be quite advanced. International Context This Irish resolution follows comparable demands in September from the leaders of both Turkey and Norway's football associations for banning Israel from global football. These appeals were issued after UN specialists asked Fifa and Uefa to ban the Israeli FA, referencing a UN investigation that claimed Israel of acts of genocide during the Gaza conflict. The Israeli government has rejected these allegations and described the report as scandalous. Possible Consequences If European football's authority decide to ban the IFA, it would likely create tension with the United States government – co-hosts for the upcoming World Cup – which strongly opposes such an action. Although the European body has the power to suspend Israel or its clubs from European competitions, it may not be able to prevent them from taking part in qualification for the World Cup, which falls under Fifa.