Palestinian Football Association President Jibril Rajoub refused to shake hands with Israeli FA representative Bassem Sheikh Suleiman during the FIFA Congress in Canada, a move supporters hailed as symbolic resistance. Association member Tayseer Nasrallah said the gesture was a “victory for Palestinian blood” and reflected the stance of Palestinians facing persecution from both armed groups and Israeli military operations. Rajoub later emphasized that the refusal was about dignity and respect for victims. The Palestinian FA has repeatedly demanded FIFA bar Israeli clubs based in West Bank settlements, arguing they violate international law. FIFA’s disciplinary committee recently fined the Israeli FA for systemic discrimination but declined to impose stronger sanctions, citing jurisdiction limits. Rajoub confirmed an appeal was filed with the Court of Arbitration for Sport to push for equal enforcement of rules, highlighting ongoing tensions between politics and football governance.
Source: Newstimehub
