Israel Soccer Team Wears Armbands in Memory of Attack Victims

During a Nations League match against Ireland, Israel’s soccer players wore black armbands to honor the victims of the October 7, 2023, terror attack. The armbands were inscribed with “7.10,” marking the date of the attack conducted by Hamas that resulted in over 1,000 Israeli fatalities. UEFA granted approval for the armbands before the match, according to the Israel Football Association.

“UEFA has approved the Israel Football Association’s request for the national team to wear black armbands in tonight’s match against @IrelandFootball in memory of those murdered in the October 7 massacre,” the association announced on X. “May their memory be a blessing.”

The match between Israel and Ireland took place amid rising tensions between the countries. Ireland’s soccer team has faced calls to boycott matches against Israel due to the nation’s response to the terror attack. Ireland is supportive of Palestinians, with the soccer association previously proposing to exclude Israel from club and international competitions. Nonetheless, concerns over UEFA sanctions have prevented Ireland from boycotting matches.

In September, during a Nations League encounter between the teams, Irish players did not shake hands with their Israeli counterparts and wore black armbands in protest. This act was repeated during the recent match. Irish players once again refrained from shaking hands with Israeli players, maintaining their stance.

Before the match, tensions were evident at a press conference with Israel’s journalists and Ireland’s soccer communications manager, Kieran Crowley. Crowley aimed to keep the focus on soccer-related questions but became agitated when asked about racism allegations against Irish players. He firmly denied the claims, stating, “That’s completely untrue.” The conference ended soon after.