FIFA Delays Decision On Palestinian Request To Suspend Israel

FIFA has postponed a decision on a Palestinian bid to suspend Israel from international soccer. The move by football's world governing body will allow Israel to take part in the men’s tournament at the upcoming Paris Olympics. FIFA mentioned that both parties had requested additional time to submit their positions.

In May, the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) submitted a proposal to suspend Israel from the sport over its actions in the Gaza Strip. FIFA was expected to make a decision on this matter on July 20 at an extraordinary council meeting after asking for a legal evaluation of the Palestinian proposal. "Following requests for extension from both parties to submit their respective positions, duly granted by FIFA, more time is needed to conclude this process with due care and completeness," the governing body wrote in X on July 19.

An independent legal assessment of the Palestinian Football Association proposals against the Israel Football Association was due to be provided to FIFA Council by 20 July 2024.

Following requests for extension from both parties to submit their respective positions, duly granted…

— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) July 18, 2024

FIFA also stated that the assessment will be shared with the FIFA Council for any subsequent decision by August 31. Meanwhile, the 2024 Olympic Games will begin on July 26, and the group matches for the men's soccer tournament will begin on July 24. Notably, the prestigious event will host both men's and women's football matches.