FIFA Postpones Decision on Palestinian Proposal Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict

FIFA has delayed a decision on a Palestinian proposal to suspend Israel from international soccer due to the conflict with Hamas. The decision was initially expected before the Olympic soccer tournament but has now been rescheduled to post-Olympics, allowing the Israeli team to participate in the Paris Games.

In a move influenced by ongoing geopolitical tensions, FIFA has postponed its decision on a Palestinian proposal to suspend Israel from international soccer due to the Israel-Hamas conflict. This delay allows the Israeli men's national team to compete in the upcoming Paris Olympics.

Soccer's global governing body was set to make the decision on Saturday during an extraordinary council meeting, following a request for an independent legal assessment two months ago. Initially, the decision was to come just days before the Olympic soccer tournament, where Israel is set to compete against Japan, Mali, and Paraguay. However, FIFA announced on Thursday that more time is needed to ensure the decision is made with due care and completeness, pushing the timeline to post-Olympics.

Both involved parties requested extensions to submit their positions. FIFA confirmed that the independent assessment is expected to be shared by August 31, while the Olympic men's soccer final will take place on August 9.

(With inputs from agencies.)