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Ireland urged not to play against Israel

Ireland

The Football Association of Ireland on Wednesday received a letter refusing to face Israel in the Nations League.

The letter to the Football Association of Ireland was signed by the Shamrock Rovers player and the chairman of the Players' Association of Ireland. The letter was also supported by the Irish Sport for Palestine Association and the rap group Kneecap.

The letter has also been made public on social media.

"We must suspend the match. As players and supporters, our natural instinct is always to go out on the pitch and fight, but this is a moment when we must take a step back and consider the bigger picture. We cannot turn a blind eye to the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Palestine. The horrific toll there must take precedence over any sporting considerations," the letter begins.

"Ireland has an opportunity here to lead, to be a pioneer and to do what others refuse to do. We must have the courage to say enough is enough. We cannot sit idly by. Please stop the game," the letter concludes.

In February, despite strong public calls to boycott the match, the Football Association of Ireland announced that it would accept the matches with Israel, fearing possible disqualification from European competitions. It remains to be seen whether the pressure on the federation will force it to back down.

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In the group with Ireland and Israel are also Kosovo and Austria.

Against Israel, Kosovo will play its first away match on October 1, and will host it in Pristina on November 14.

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