FIFA Slammed for Silence on Israel’s Atrocities in Gaza
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Criticism has mounted against football's governing body, FIFA, for its inaction regarding Israel's ongoing atrocities in Palestine, prompting accusations of double standards.
While FIFA swiftly responded to Russia's actions in Ukraine, imposing bans on the Russian team and ousting Russian clubs from European competitions, it has yet to take similar measures against Israel despite the death toll of over 13,000 Palestinians in Gaza since October 7.
Simon Chadwick, a professor of sport and geopolitical economy at Skema Business School, voiced concerns, stating, "There are players, teams, and families suffering due to what's happening (in Palestine), yet FIFA has remained silent."
Chadwick added, "Perhaps if Palestine held more influence within FIFA, there would have been some form of statement addressing the ongoing events."
Despite being scheduled as a home game for Palestine, the World Cup 2026 qualifier against Australia has been relocated to Kuwait following Israel's recent attacks on Gaza and the occupied West Bank.
