Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin has conveyed his “deep sympathy” regarding the “tragic acts of violence” in Israel, following a series of attacks by the Palestinian militant group Hamas, resulting in casualties and hostages. Ceferin, on behalf of the European football community, sent a letter to the Chairman of the Israel Football Association.
In response to the recent events, the Euro 2024 qualifier between Israel and Kosovo, scheduled for Sunday, has been postponed, as Israeli authorities have restricted the national team from traveling abroad. A new date for the fixture will be announced later.
Israel has retaliated with airstrikes on Gaza and imposed restrictions on the passage of essential supplies like food, water, fuel, and medicine into the region.
Ceferin expressed his condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the profound tragedy and the extensive impact on the entire football community. He expressed hope for a world where such senseless acts of violence have no place and extended his wishes for the healing of the deep wounds.
The UK government has encouraged sporting governing bodies to mark the attacks in Israel with appropriate shows of support for the victims. The Football Association (FA) is expected to convey a message of peace and unity before the England-Australia friendly match, rather than illuminating the Wembley arch in the colors of the Israeli flag, due to concerns about potential backlash from some communities.
As of now, the FA, Premier League, and individual clubs have not released official statements regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
