Dublin, (SANA) A number of high-profile Irish footballers have joined a group of celebrities in a campaign urging the Republic of Ireland to boycott a Nations League match with Israel later this year.
The group “Irish Sports for Palestine” has sent an open letter to the Irish Football Association accusing Israel of engaging in “genocide” during its war on Gaza and of violating the regulations of the European Union (UEFA) and international associations (FIFA) by allowing teams to hold matches matches in the occupied Palestinian territory.
The letter, titled ‘Stop the Match’, was signed by League of Ireland players, as well as former first team manager Brian Kerr and former best player Louise Quinn.
The list of signatories also included well-known cultural and artistic names, including Irish rock band Fontaines D.C, in addition to Oscar-nominated actor Stephen Rhea.
The letter included a statement from Roberto López, captain of the Shamrock Rovers team, and president of the Irish Professional Footballers’ Association, who is expected to participate with Cape Verde in the World Cup scheduled for June, saying: “We cannot ignore the humanitarian catastrophe in Palestine, the loss of life must be above all sporting consideration. »
Ireland are due to host Israel in Dublin on October 4, while another match is scheduled to take place on September 27 at a neutral stadium.
A poll carried out by the Irish Football Fan Association showed that 76% of those surveyed opposed the match.
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