While the conflict between Gaza and Israel is claiming thousands of lives, FIFA, through its president Gianni Infantino, has relayed a message of peace and hope. In this open letter to the Israeli and Palestinian Federations, the leader of the international football body notably called for “an immediate end to hostilities”.
Through this letter, he also sent wishes for international solidarity: “The world of football wishes to affirm its solidarity with the people of Israel and Palestine, and with all the innocent victims who have paid a terrible price” He also expressed his hope that football could serve as an instrument of peace between the two camps: “Of course we know that football cannot solve the world’s problems, but it can play a role, however small, in bringing light of hope where there seems to be only darkness. Fifa will do everything in its power to assist you in your relief efforts and to restore peace and hope to your people, now and in the future.”
The local championships have been temporarily stopped, while various tributes should be carried out soon, firstly during the Blues’ match on Friday evening against the Netherlands.