How Would a Vote to Suspend Israel from Football Work?
Decisions regarding significant actions in European football are under the purview of UEFA’s executive committee, which consists of 20 elected officials representing various member states. This committee oversees the governance, financial management, and rules of UEFA. The president, Aleksandr Ceferin, has been in office since 2016 and leads this group.
To pass a resolution to suspend Israel, a simple majority of 11 out of 20 votes is required. Typically, UEFA only holds formal votes when there is a clear consensus expected. If a vote were to take place and result in a suspension, the decision would be effective immediately, meaning Israel would be barred from participating in upcoming tournaments, including the World Cup qualifiers.
Who Would Make the Decision?
Among the 16 elected members of UEFA’s executive committee are officials from a variety of countries, including one Israeli representative, Moshe Zuares. Other members hail from nations like Spain, Norway, Albania, and Armenia, some of which have shown pro-Palestinian sentiments. Despite this, only Turkey has openly called for Israel’s suspension from international competitions.
Nasser Al-Khelaifi, president of the European Club Association and PSG, holds considerable influence within UEFA. His public stance on Israel’s participation remains neutral, which leaves questions about how he may sway the decision-making process.
Could UEFA and FIFA Disagree?
Any suspension of Israel by UEFA would require ratification from FIFA, the global governing body. This was evident when FIFA and UEFA jointly announced Russia’s suspension following its invasion of Ukraine. However, potential disagreements could arise, especially given FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s close ties to pro-Israel sentiments in the United States, particularly during the Trump administration.
Which Athletes Are Calling for Israel to Be Banned?
A notable coalition of 48 athletes, including high-profile figures like French World Cup winner Paul Pogba, has publicly demanded that UEFA suspend Israel until it complies with international law regarding its actions in Gaza. Their statement emphasizes the importance of justice and humanity in sports, arguing that silence equates to complicity in injustice.
Is Perception Changing at the Top of Football?
Historically, UEFA has resisted calls to suspend Israel, with Ceferin advocating for competition to remain free from political interference. However, recent events have shifted sentiments within the organization. Criticism has emerged over UEFA’s social media conduct, particularly following the death of Palestinian footballer Suleiman al-Obeid, which has prompted calls for a more robust stance on humanitarian issues.
The Turkish FA has taken the initiative, becoming the first UEFA member to demand Israel’s suspension. This push aligns with broader calls for accountability within the football community, highlighting the need for sporting institutions to address issues of injustice.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza, exacerbated by Israel’s military operations, has raised the stakes for football’s governing bodies. The death toll has reportedly exceeded 65,000, including a significant number of civilians and children. These dire circumstances have led athletes like Hector Bellerin to express concerns over perceived double standards in how sporting sanctions are applied, contrasting the situation with Russia’s exclusion from competitions.
While some advocate for Israel’s continued participation in international football, viewing suspension as a betrayal of Jewish communities, the growing pressure for accountability in sports is undeniable. Regardless of the outcome, the implications of such a decision would extend far beyond the realm of football, influencing geopolitical dynamics and the global perception of sports as a platform for social justice.