Palestine FA chief hits out at Israel federation VP at FIFA Congress
Summary
At the 76th FIFA Congress, Palestinian Football Association (PFA) President Jibril Rajoub refused to stand next to Israel Football Association (IFA) Vice-President Basim Sheikh Suliman. FIFA President Gianni Infantino tried to bring them together for a handshake, but Rajoub declined, citing ongoing political and human rights tensions related to Israeli activities in the West Bank.Key Facts
- Jibril Rajoub, head of the Palestinian Football Association, refused to stand near Basim Sheikh Suliman, Israel FA Vice-President, at the FIFA Congress.
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino asked Rajoub to come closer to Suliman and tried to encourage a handshake.
- Rajoub declined, with Palestinian FA Vice President Susan Shalabi stating Rajoub would not shake hands with someone representing what they see as Israeli "fascism and genocide."
- Israel denies committing genocide in Gaza.
- Rajoub used his speech to urge Israeli clubs not to play in West Bank settlements, considered disputed territory by Palestinians.
- The Palestinian FA has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport against FIFA’s refusal to punish Israeli clubs playing in West Bank settlements.
- FIFA decided not to sanction the Israel Football Association or Israeli clubs, citing unclear legal status of the West Bank.
- Infantino said they should work together despite complex political issues to bring hope to children through football.
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