FIFA defers decision on Palestinian request to suspend Israel

World football’s governing body, FIFA, has deferred making a decision on a Palestinian request to suspend Israel during its council meeting on Thursday.

Instead of issuing an immediate verdict, FIFA announced the launch of a committee investigation to guide its final decision.

“The FIFA Council has implemented due diligence on this very sensitive matter and, based on a thorough assessment, we have followed the advice of the independent experts,” said FIFA president Gianni Infantino in a statement.

The Palestinian Football Association had petitioned FIFA, requesting Israel’s suspension, citing violations related to the treatment of Palestinian athletes and restrictions imposed in territories under Israeli control.

FIFA defers decision on Palestinian request to suspend Israel