UEFA is considering a vote to suspend Israel from its competitions, a move that could trigger a clash with FIFA and potentially involve the intervention of former U.S. President Donald Trump. This potential suspension stems from the ongoing conflict in Gaza and accusations of genocide against Israel, which the country denies. A majority of UEFA's 20-member executive committee is expected to support the suspension, which would prevent Israeli national and club teams from participating in international competitions, including the World Cup.

The move by UEFA comes as various groups and figures, including UN experts, have called for Israel's suspension from international sports. They argue that "sports cannot be business as usual" and that sporting bodies should not ignore human rights violations. The UN Human Rights Office stated that a panel of experts urged FIFA and UEFA to suspend Israel as a necessary response to the situation. These calls have intensified due to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with some drawing parallels to the ban imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.

However, FIFA's stance remains uncertain. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has a close relationship with Donald Trump, and the Trump administration has expressed its opposition to any ban on Israel. The U.S. government views its support as crucial for the successful hosting of the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. A U.S. State Department spokesperson told Sky News, "We will absolutely work to fully stop any effort to attempt to ban Israel's national soccer team from the World Cup".

This divergence in views between UEFA and FIFA sets the stage for a potential conflict. If UEFA suspends Israel and FIFA does not follow suit, Israel might still be able to participate in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. However, a ban from UEFA would complicate Israel's qualification. Israel is currently third in its World Cup qualifying group.

The situation is further complicated by the ongoing investigations by FIFA into allegations of discrimination raised by the Palestine Football Association against the Israeli FA. These investigations also cover the participation of teams from Israeli settlements in the West Bank in Israeli competitions, potentially violating FIFA regulations.

Despite the growing pressure, there are voices within football who oppose the exclusion of athletes. UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin has stated, "I am fundamentally opposed to excluding athletes. Athletes cannot stop governments".

The coming weeks will be critical as UEFA's executive committee is expected to meet soon to vote on the suspension. FIFA's ruling council is also scheduled to meet, where the issue of Israel's participation and the pressure from various sides will likely be discussed. The decisions made by these organizations will have significant implications for Israeli football and could further strain the relationship between UEFA and FIFA, especially with the involvement of political forces like the Trump administration.