Governing body for football in Palestine, overseeing men's and women's national teams.
Palestinian athletes, including Rand Halawani, are detained by Israeli authorities in Jerusalem after protests; some are released with house arrest as investigations continue. The Palestinian Football Association condemns the detentions as part of a broader pattern targeting Palestinian athletes, while international observers note ongoing rights concerns.
Heads of football associations face US visa denials as the World Cup hosts struggle to grant entry for officials and media. Iran, Palestine and other delegations have encountered travel restrictions, complicating the tournament’s logistics and diplomacy.
The Football Association of Ireland has moved an October 4 Nations League match against Israel away from Aviva Stadium due to operational challenges amid protests over Gaza war casualties. A September 27 home fixture for Israel is also expected to be staged at a neutral venue. The federation says the change aims to protect the delivery of the match, with both sides set to meet at neutral sites.
FIFA is exploring a symbolic Israel-Palestine under-15 match to open a global youth festival in the United States, while Palestinian officials question the gesture amid ongoing war and calls for accountability. Infantino remains committed to using football as a peace vehicle, despite controversy and Gaza’s devastated sports landscape.
Spain defeats Argentina 1-0 in extra time, Ferran Torres scores. Netanyahu and Milei have backed opposing sides; Spain’s stance on Gaza draws global reactions, with supporters celebrating in Gaza and among pro-Palestine advocates. The final becomes a mirror for how international politics intersect with sport.