UEFA President writes to Israel over conflict with Hamas

In a gesture of solidarity, the President of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), Aleksander Ceferin, has penned an emotional letter to Israel, conveying profound sorrow in the wake of the tragic events that have unfolded in the region.

The letter from UEFA, addressed to the Israel Football Association, expresses sympathy and condolences for the distressing acts of violence that recently occurred in Israel.

These events, which transpired due to an attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas, resulted in the loss of numerous lives, including both Israeli citizens and foreigners.

Reports have indicated that the attack involved the kidnapping of around 150 individuals.

In response to these attacks, Israel has initiated airstrikes on the Gaza Strip and has severed the territory’s access to vital resources such as fuel, food, water, and medical supplies.

Ceferin, on behalf of the European football community, voiced his sentiments in the letter, saying,

“On behalf of UEFA and the European football community,

“I am writing to express our profound sorrow upon learning about the tragic acts of violence that occurred last week in Israel, resulting in the loss of innocent lives.”

He continued,

“My heart goes out to all the victims and their families during these difficult times.

“It is an unimaginable tragedy, and the pain and sorrow are profound and resonate across the entire football community.

“We sincerely hope no one will ever again experience such grief.”

Ceferin also expressed his hopes for healing and a world where such senseless acts of violence find no place.

In the midst of the ongoing crisis, it has been reported that the scheduled Euro 2024 qualifier between Israel and Kosovo, set for Sunday, October 12, has been postponed indefinitely.

The Israel national team will remain in the country until the situation subsides, and a new date for the game will be announced in due course.