Sideline Israel From International Sports.

Calls are growing for FIFA, the global soccer governing body, to ban Israel's teams from international competitions. The Palestinian Football Association has formally demanded action due to Israel's assault on Gaza, the disruption of Palestinian soccer caused by Israel's occupation, and the participation of teams from Israel's illegal West Bank settlements in domestic leagues. FIFA has previously avoided sanctioning Israel, but protests and disruptions at soccer stadiums around the world may force a change. The recent qualifier match between Scotland and Israel, which was played behind closed doors due to fears of disruption, demonstrated the potential power of fans in pressuring FIFA. A sports boycott may not end Israel's actions, but it can highlight the abnormality of the situation and destabilize the regime's legitimacy. The example of the anti-apartheid sports boycott in South Africa shows that grassroots activism and disruption can eventually lead to change. Soccer federations may face increasing pressure as more players and fans express discomfort with maintaining normal sporting relations with Israel. [Extracted from the article]