Both Fifa and the IOC have avoided statements denouncing the Israel-Gaza war and the ensuing humanitarian crisis, a decision in stark contrast to their handling of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
As the number of Palestinians killed by Israeli bombs in Gaza continues to rise – and amid reports that “pockets of famine” have started to emerge in the territory – there seems to be few ways they can defend themselves. One method could be through something that unites the world: sport.
On New Year’s Eve, Jordan’s Football Association (JFA) released a statement calling on the global sports community to take “decisive action to stop the aggression against Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied territories.”
Karim Zidan writes a regular newsletter on the intersection of sports and authoritarian politics.