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Ireland's football governing body has given the green light to present a formal motion to European football's governing body, calling for the exclusion of Israel from all European club and international competitions.

Grounds for the Recommended Suspension

This motion, which was put forward by Dublin club Bohemians, highlighted alleged violations by the IFA of a couple of key European football regulations.

• Inability to implement and enforce an proper policy against racism.
• Establishment of football teams in disputed territories lacking the consent of the Palestrian FA.

Vote Outcome and Next Steps

As stated in an official statement from the FAI, the proposal was supported by 74 votes, with 7 against and two not voting.

The association plans to officially present this request to the UEFA's decision-making body, asking for the prompt ban of the Israel Football Association from Uefa competitions.

During a special assembly of the FAI, an standard motion was posed to members. It was approved by a majority.

Earlier European Considerations

Uefa had earlier put on hold intentions to ban Israel at the close of last month, following the announcement of a US peace proposal for the region.

While they never officially confirmed considering an special session on the issue, preparations were believed to be quite advanced.

International Context

This Irish move follows similar calls in September from the heads of both Turkey and Norway's governing bodies for banning Israel from global football.

These appeals were made after United Nations experts asked world and European football bodies to suspend the Israeli FA, referencing a UN commission of inquiry report that accused the country of acts of genocide during the war in Gaza.

Israel has rejected these claims and described the findings as scandalous.

Possible Ramifications

If Uefa decide to ban the IFA, it would probably create tension with the United States government – co-hosts for the 2026 World Cup – which is firmly against such an measure.

Although the European body has the authority to suspend Israel or its clubs from its tournaments, it may not be able to prevent them from competing in World Cup qualifiers, which falls under Fifa.