Summary
Over 30 legal experts are asking UEFA to ban Israel from football competitions due to actions in Gaza described as genocide by UN investigators. The experts argue that Israel's military actions are harming the sport in Gaza, including the loss of hundreds of Palestinian athletes. They compare the situation to past sports boycotts, like that of apartheid South Africa.
Key Facts
- More than 30 legal experts sent a letter to UEFA to ban Israel from football competitions.
- The letter claims that Israel's actions in Gaza amount to genocide, as confirmed by UN investigators.
- The experts say Israel's military actions have killed at least 421 Palestinian footballers and destroyed Gaza's football infrastructure.
- The letter also states that the Israel Football Association has not addressed these violations, questioning its participation in UEFA.
- The experts compare the situation in Gaza to past international boycotts like apartheid South Africa.
- FIFA suspended South Africa in 1961 and Russia in 2022 for similar reasons.
- Some football clubs in Israel are located in illegal settlements, which FIFA rules prohibit without proper approval.
