UEFA Faces Decision on Israel Football Suspension Amid Gaza Conflict

FIFA Vice-President Victor Montagliani has stated that the decision regarding Israel's continued participation in international football should be made by UEFA, the European governing body of football, as Israel is a UEFA member. UEFA had been expected to hold an emergency vote on suspending Israel from European competition due to the ongoing war in Gaza, but the vote was postponed following U.S. President Donald Trump's 20-point peace plan for the region. Israel currently ranks third in Group I of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, which will be held in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Amnesty International has called on FIFA and UEFA to suspend the Israel Football Association amid the conflict, but Montagliani emphasized respect for UEFA's process and decisions. The issue of Israel's participation will not be on the agenda at the upcoming FIFA Council meeting, and despite concerns about safety, no World Cup matches are expected to be relocated. The debate reflects the complex intersection of geopolitical tensions and international sports governance.