Palestinian Football Association applauds Norway over calls for action against Israel

The Palestinian Football Association (PFA) has expressed strong support for Norwegian Football Federation President Lise Klaveness, who urged FIFA to investigate alleged Israeli violations ahead of Norway’s World Cup qualifier match against Israel.

Klaveness highlighted that Norway’s participation transcends sports, voicing concern over civilian casualties in Gaza.

The PFA lauded Norway’s acknowledgment of the impact on Palestinian civilians and athletes, stating it reflects a global commitment to justice and the principles of international sport.

In a statement, the PFA accused Israeli forces of systematically targeting Palestinian athletes and infrastructure, leading to significant loss of life and destruction of sports facilities. These actions, they claim, breach FIFA regulations and international humanitarian law.

The PFA also criticized the Israeli Football Association, alleging complicity in racism, annexation of occupied territories, and the ongoing devastation in Gaza. “These actions undermine the core principles of football: fairness, respect, and unity,” the PFA asserted.

Calling for collective action, the PFA urged national football associations, including FIFA and UEFA, to suspend all sporting ties with Israel until it complies with international obligations.

The association demanded a transparent and urgent FIFA investigation into Israel’s practices to uphold football’s role as a symbol of peace and justice. “The global football community cannot remain silent in the face of grave human rights abuses,” the PFA stated, reinforcing the need for accountability within the sport.