World Cup qualifier drama: Norway pushes for Israel investigation 

The Palestinian Football Association (PFA) has lauded the Norwegian Football Federation after its president, Lise Klaveness, reportedly urged FIFA to investigate Israel for alleged humanitarian violations ahead of next year’s World Cup qualifying matches between Norway and Israel.

The matches, scheduled for March 25 and October 11 as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, have already drawn political attention. Klaveness described the draw as “difficult,” citing concerns that extend beyond the sport.

“The draw is difficult for us, beyond the purely sporting aspect,” Klaveness said. “None of us can remain indifferent to the disproportionate attacks that Israel has inflicted on the civilian population of Gaza over a long period of time.”

Acknowledging Israel’s continued participation in UEFA competitions, Klaveness stated, “We have to deal with that. We are following the situation closely with FIFA, UEFA, and the Norwegian authorities.”

Klaveness emphasized that the Norwegian Football Federation is advocating for FIFA to consider sanctions against Israel and is actively working towards Israel’s suspension from international sporting events. Her remarks align with the Norwegian government’s stance, which has pushed for international sanctions against Israel and has officially recognized Palestinian statehood.

Norway became one of the first European countries to impose sanctions on Israeli settlers in the West Bank and remains a vocal supporter of Palestinian rights on the global stage.

While some reports suggested that the Norwegian national team might boycott the matches, no official statement has confirmed this, leaving the fate of the games uncertain.