🔗 Share this article FAI Backs Motion Urging Uefa Ban on Israel The Football Association of Ireland has given the green light to present a formal motion to European football's governing body, demanding the exclusion of Israeli football from all European club and international competitions. Basis of the Recommended Ban This motion, that had been put forward by Dublin club Bohemians, cited alleged violations by the IFA of a couple of important European football regulations. Inability to implement and enforce an proper anti-racism policy. Organisation of clubs in disputed territories without the consent of the Palestrian FA. Ballot Results and Future Actions As stated in an announcement from the FAI, the resolution was backed by 74 votes, with seven opposed and two not voting. The association intends to formally submit this motion to the Uefa executive committee, seeking the prompt ban of the IFA from Uefa competitions. In an extraordinary general meeting of the FAI, an ordinary resolution was put to delegates. It was approved by a majority. Earlier Uefa Considerations Uefa had earlier put on hold intentions to ban Israeli football at the end of September, following the announcement of a US peace proposal for the region. Although Uefa never officially confirmed contemplating an special session on the issue, plans were believed to be well developed. International Backdrop This Irish resolution comes after comparable demands in September from the leaders of Turkish and Norwegian football associations for banning Israel from global football. Those requests were issued after United Nations experts urged Fifa and Uefa to suspend Israel, citing a UN investigation that accused the country of acts of genocide during the Gaza conflict. The Israeli government has rejected these claims and labeled the findings as scandalous. Potential Consequences If Uefa decide to suspend the IFA, it would likely strain relations with the United States government – joint hosts for the 2026 World Cup – which strongly opposes such an measure. Although Uefa has the authority to suspend Israel or its clubs from its tournaments, it may not be able to prevent them from competing in World Cup qualifiers, which falls under Fifa.