Despite growing pressure to exclude Israel from sporting competitions due to the war in Gaza, FIFA and UEFA have made the decision to allow the Israeli national team and clubs to continue participating in international competitions.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said on Thursday that the world football organization cannot resolve political issues but has a duty to promote peace and unity.
"We stress the importance of peace and unity, particularly in the context of the ongoing situation in Gaza," said the FIFA statement, which did not directly mention Israel.
Currently, Israel continues to participate in World Cup qualifiers, while Maccabi Tel Aviv is active in the UEFA Europa League.
