Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
The Israeli Football Federation (IFA) claimed to be confused UEFA and FIFA has not given a punishment for Israel Despite serious violations related to attacks in Gaza.
This was revealed by the Head of IFA Communication, Shlomi Barzel. Quoted from The Times of Israel, Barzel said Israel had not been sentenced to UEFA and FIFA was a miracle.
“I’m surprised us [Israel] still part of the international tournament. In many ways, this is a miracle, “Barzel told Globes quoted from The Times of Israelthis week.
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“Historically, countries have been punished [UEFA dan FIFA] For a much lighter violation, “Barzel added.
FIFA and UEFA received a lot of criticism because they were considered to be carrying out double standards against Israel, especially related to Russia who were immediately sentenced due to attacks on Ukraine.
Barzel then gives predictions. Barzel believes that UEFA and FIFA will eventually punish Israel, especially if Israel returns to an attack on Gaza.
“My estimation, we will complete the current national team activities, but one incident that is troublesome again in Gaza, and everything can end in an instant,” Barzel said.
The Israeli national team is currently fighting in Group I of the 2026 European World Cup Qualifiers. Israel is competing with Italy to become runner-up and qualify for the playoffs.
If crossed out from the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the Israeli national team certainly cannot play in the 2026 World Cup, the Maccabi Tel Aviv club cannot play in the Europa League. Israel cannot participate in the event under the UEFA and FIFA umbrellas.
Previously, it was reported that Qatar had urged UEFA to vote on Israel’s crossing this week. Qatar, which is one of the biggest sponsors of UEFA and FIFA, asked Israel to be dropped following the attack on Doha some time ago.
“If there is a voting at UEFA or FIFA, then we will not survive,” said Barzel.
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