FIFA delays verdict on Israeli settlement clubs as political tensions rise

FIFA decided to delay making a ruling on Israeli settlement clubs, which has sparked even more tension between the Palestinian and Israeli sides. During the FIFA Congress in Asuncion, Paraguay, on Thursday, Palestinian officials expressed their disappointment that FIFA is not setting a clear timeline for wrapping up the investigations that began in October 2024. Susan Shalabi, a leading Palestinian official and a member of the Asian Football Confederation, delivered a strong speech asking for immediate action on a problem that has not been solved for almost 15 years.FIFA is investigating two main points: allegations of discrimination by the Israel Football Association and the question of whether teams from West Bank settlements break FIFA’s statutes when they play in Israeli competitions. Such settlements are seen as illegal by international law, which makes what would be routine decisions much more political.Susan Shalabi pointed out at the Congress that the problems Palestinians have in soccer are visible, undeniable, but sadly not addressed, and the audience applauded his statement. She made sure that the governance panel was required to report their findings to President Gianni Infantino’s council within one month.Since 2009, the Palestinian Football Association has been pushing against settlement clubs, claiming they weaken Palestinian control and go against FIFA’s rules on territory.After Susan Shalabi finished speaking, FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström pointed out that the new committee members needed time to learn the details of the case. According to him, the committees are working hard to finalise a very complex subject.There are those who point out that FIFA reacted swiftly to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, but has delayed for years when it comes to Palestine. There is growing pressure on FIFA from human rights organisations to ensure its human rights policies are enforced regularly.The dispute began after tensions between Israel and the region increased because of recent clashes along the border. Administrators on all sides of football recognise that the sport cannot stay separate from what is happening internationally.Also Read: European football leaders stage walkout after Gianni Infantino delays FIFA CongressFollowing the progress of the FIFA Congress is possible through official FIFA channels and the major sports networks that are covering it until Friday.