FIFA defers decision on Palestinian request to suspend Israel

World football’s governing body, FIFA, has deferred making a decision on a Palestinian request to suspend Israel during its council meeting on Thursday.

Instead of issuing an immediate verdict, FIFA announced the launch of a committee investigation to guide its final decision.

“The FIFA Council has implemented due diligence on this very sensitive matter and, based on a thorough assessment, we have followed the advice of the independent experts,” said FIFA president Gianni Infantino in a statement.

The Palestinian Football Association had petitioned FIFA, requesting Israel’s suspension, citing violations related to the treatment of Palestinian athletes and restrictions imposed in territories under Israeli control.