Amnesty International has criticized the upcoming participation of the Israel men's football team in the UEFA Nations League, scheduled to take place between September 24 and October 6, 2023. Steve Cockburn, the organization’s Regional Director for Europe, stated that it is unacceptable for Israel to compete despite supporting illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT).
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Cockburn argued that UEFA's decision to allow Israel to play sends a message that there is no consequence for the country’s actions in the OPT, including ongoing violations against Palestinians. He pointed out that UEFA and FIFA should have suspended the Israel Football Association (IFA) long ago for its involvement with clubs based in settlements deemed illegal under international law.
He warned that by continuing to fund the IFA, FIFA and UEFA risk contributing to the persistence of Israel's unlawful occupation and the human rights abuses faced by Palestinians. Cockburn referenced various international court decisions and UN resolutions that have condemned Israel for its numerous transgressions over the years.
As the Israeli team prepares for its matches in Europe, Palestinians are reportedly facing displacement and other challenges attributed to ongoing settlement activity supported by the Israeli military. Cockburn emphasized that sport should unite people rather than serve as a platform for endorsing actions against human rights.
Significant public opposition to Israel's participation has emerged in Ireland, fueled by the ‘Stop the Game’ campaign, which has attracted the involvement of various football associations, players, and politicians advocating for sanctions or a boycott of the games between Ireland and Israel. The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has formally requested UEFA to suspend Israel from competitions, but UEFA has approved the matches, which will be held in neutral venues in Hungary and Serbia without fans.
FIFA announced in March 2026 that it would take no action against the IFA regarding the participation of clubs from illegal settlements. This decision has prompted the Palestinian Football Association to escalate its concerns to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Amnesty International's report noted that the current Israeli administration has been pursuing policies that further annex Palestinian land, exacerbating the situation in the region.