Israel Overview

Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso and captain Gianluigi Donnarumma both attended the inauguration of the new museum of football at Coverciano on Wednesday. Gattuso was meant to donate the boots he wore in the 2006 World Cup final win over France but revealed that his mother refused to give them up.

UEFA has delayed a vote on suspending Israel from European competition after United States president Donald Trump revealed a fresh attempt to end the war in Gaza. Trump has unveiled a 20-point peace plan and has given Hamas "three or four days" to respond or face the consequences. Given the circumstances, UEFA has now put a plan to vote on suspending Israel on hold.

UEFA is reportedly set to make a decision next week on whether Israel will be suspended from European competition. There have been calls for the continental governing body to take action amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. A UN Commission of Inquiry has concluded that there are reasonable grounds to conclude that Israel is committing genocide in that region. Sporting institutions are now being urged to take action.

Spain have reportedly threatened to boycott the 2026 World Cup if Israel qualify. After a United Nations commission of inquiry stated that Israel had committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza this week, Spanish government officials say they will "assess" the situation if Ran Ben-Shimon's team make it to next year's tournament in North America.