Former Republic of Ireland manager Brian Kerr and 39 others have signed an open letter urging the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) to boycott upcoming Nations League matches against Israel. The campaign, led by Irish Sport For Palestine, argues the games violate Uefa and Fifa rules by enabling Israel’s alleged apartheid policies and war crimes in occupied Palestinian territories. Signatories include prominent figures like ex-Ireland women’s player Louise Quinn, Sweden international Hedvig Lindahl, and musicians Paul Weller and Fontaines DC. The letter demands the FAI prioritize humanitarian concerns over sporting obligations, stating, "We can’t ignore the humanitarian catastrophe in Palestine."

The FAI previously voted 93% in favor of suspending Israel from Uefa in November 2025, citing the Israeli Football Association’s failure to enforce anti-racism policies and organizing clubs in illegal West Bank settlements. Despite this, the FAI confirmed in February it would proceed with the September fixtures, warning of potential disqualification if the team refused to play. The conflict in Gaza, triggered by Hamas’s October 2023 attack on Israel, has resulted in over 72,500 Palestinian deaths, according to local health authorities, with Israel maintaining its military actions are justified as self-defense.

Critics argue the FAI’s decision undermines its November resolution and ignores player/fan demands for ethical accountability. Lopes, Shamrock Rovers captain and PFAI chair, emphasized, "We have to stop the game" to address the crisis. The FAI has not responded to requests for comment. The dispute highlights tensions between sports diplomacy and political advocacy amid the Gaza war’s ongoing escalation.

This standoff underscores growing pressure on European football bodies to address geopolitical conflicts. With the Nations League fixtures looming, the FAI faces mounting calls to align its policies with its members’ ethical convictions. The outcome could set a precedent for how sports organizations navigate human rights violations in international competition.