ISRAELI SETTLEMENT FOOTBALL CLUBS COMPETE WITH FIFA BACKING WHILST...

An investigation by Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism and Bridges Investigations has found that football clubs based in Israeli settlements participate in Israeli domestic competitions with support from the Israel Football Association, whilst the Palestinian game has been brought near to standstill since October 2023. According to the investigation, FIFA has not taken action against settlement-based clubs and broadcasts their matches on its FIFA+ platform, despite stating formal commitment to respecting internationally recognised human rights. Mahdi al-Assi, a goalkeeper for the Palestinian youth team, reported that reaching training grounds requires hours spent at Israeli military checkpoints, with travel frequently disrupted by raids and teargas.

FIFA and UEFA continue to recognise and financially support the Israel Football Association. Meanwhile, in the occupied West Bank, hundreds of sports facilities have been damaged or destroyed, and matches are routinely cancelled because of checkpoints and military closures. The investigation examined Beitar Givat Ze'ev, a team that trains on land classified under international law as occupied Palestinian territory. Palestinian players report that routine travel between cities has become increasingly difficult, particularly since Israel's 2022 elections and the launch of military operations in Gaza in October 2023.

The investigation reveals a disparity in football governance between Israeli and Palestinian authorities. Whilst Israeli settlement clubs expand their facilities and continue regular competition, Palestinian players struggle with basic access to training and matches. FIFA's statutes commit the organisation to respecting human rights, but the investigation found no corresponding enforcement action taken against settlement clubs or the Israeli Football Association.