🔗 Share this article Football Association of Ireland Approves Motion Calling for European Football Ban on Israel Ireland's football governing body has given the green light to submit a formal motion to European football's governing body, demanding the exclusion of Israeli football from all European club and international tournaments. Basis of the Proposed Suspension The resolution, which was proposed by Irish side Bohemians, cited claimed violations by the IFA of a couple of key European football regulations. Inability to apply and uphold an effective policy against racism. Organisation of football teams in disputed territories lacking the approval of the Palestinian Football Association. Ballot Results and Next Steps According to an announcement from the FAI, the resolution was backed by 74 votes, with 7 against and 2 not voting. The association plans to formally submit this motion to the UEFA's decision-making body, seeking the immediate suspension of the IFA from European tournaments. During a special assembly of the Football Association of Ireland, an standard motion was put to members. It passed by a majority. Earlier Uefa Deliberations The European body had earlier put on hold intentions to exclude Israel at the end of September, following the revealing of a US peace proposal for the region. While they never officially confirmed contemplating an extraordinary meeting on the issue, plans were understood to be well developed. Global Context This Irish resolution follows comparable calls in last autumn from the leaders of both Turkey and Norway's governing bodies for Israel's suspension from global football. Those requests were made after UN specialists asked Fifa and Uefa to suspend Israel, referencing a UN investigation that accused the country of acts of genocide during the Gaza conflict. The Israeli government has denied these claims and described the report as scandalous. Potential Ramifications If Uefa choose to ban Israel, it would likely strain relations with the United States government – co-hosts for the 2026 World Cup – which strongly opposes such an measure. Although Uefa has the power to exclude Israeli teams from its tournaments, it may not be able to prevent them from competing in qualification for the World Cup, which is governed by world football's governing body.