The United States has officially reacted to discussions taking place within FIFA about a possible suspension of Israel from international football competitions, including the 2026 World Cup. Through a statement issued by the State Department, the US administration has expressed full support for the Israel Football Federation and confirmed that diplomatic steps are underway to stop this process.
“We will work to stop any attempt to exclude the Israeli national team from the World Cup,” the statement said. The initiative is being led by Senator Marco Rubio, who has been one of the most vocal voices in defense of Israel’s presence in the international sports arena.
Washington's reaction comes at a time when, according to diplomatic sources, requests for sanctions against Israeli teams are being considered within FIFA and UEFA, due to the escalating situation in Gaza. According to the sources, there is no final decision yet, but international pressure is growing.
Meanwhile, the United Nations has called on FIFA and UEFA to take action against Israel's participation in international competitions, demanding the suspension of clubs and the national team until a resolution to the conflict.
At the same time, FIFA has launched a formal investigation into the Israel Football Federation, following a complaint filed by the Palestinian Football Association, which accuses it of systematic discrimination and violations of international sporting rules.
The situation remains tense as the 2026 World Cup – which will be held in the US, Mexico and Canada – approaches against an increasingly politicized backdrop.
