Palestinian FA chief refuses handshake with 'Israel' football official at FIFA congress
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- Incident took place during FIFA Congress in Vancouver after mediation attempt by Gianni Infantino.
- Palestinian side said refusal linked to rejection of normalization amid ongoing war.
A tense moment unfolded at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver on Thursday when the head of the Palestinian Football Association, Jibril Rajoub, refused to shake hands with the deputy head of the 'Israel' Football Association, Bassam Sheikh Suleiman.
The exchange occurred during a high-level session attended by international football officials, prompting a brief intervention by FIFA President Gianni Infantino in an attempt to ease tensions.
Handshake refusal at FIFA Congress
According to reports from the venue, Infantino attempted to bring both officials together on stage, placing his hand on Rajoub’s arm and urging him to step closer to Suleiman.
Despite the mediation effort, Rajoub declined to engage in a handshake, maintaining his position in front of assembled delegates.
Infantino later addressed the congress, saying: "We will work together, President Rajoub and Vice President Suleiman. Let us work together to give hope to children. These are complex issues."
FIFA mediation attempt
The FIFA president’s intervention was aimed at reducing visible political friction within the congress, which brought together representatives from across global football governance.
The moment drew attention due to its symbolic weight, as FIFA has long faced pressure over how it handles political disputes between member associations.
Palestinian explanation of refusal
Speaking to Reuters, Palestinian Football Association Vice President Suzanne Shalabi, who was present with the delegation, said Rajoub’s position was deliberate and politically grounded.
She quoted him as saying: "I cannot shake hands with someone brought by representatives of the occupation to whitewash their fascism and genocidal crimes. We are suffering."
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between the Palestinian football leadership and the 'Israel' Football Association within international sporting platforms.
