Norway’s Support for Gaza Relief Efforts
Amid ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza, Norway’s football governing body has announced plans to contribute the earnings from their upcoming World Cup qualifying match against Israel, scheduled for October 11 in Oslo, to support relief efforts in the region. Lise Klaveness, the president of the Norwegian Football Federation, emphasized in a Tuesday statement that organizations like theirs cannot turn a blind eye to the enduring suffering faced by civilians in Gaza, which has escalated due to disproportionate violence. Klaveness expressed the federation’s desire to assist humanitarian organizations actively working on the ground to provide life-saving aid in Gaza.
Financial Commitment and Security Concerns
The exact financial outcome from ticket sales for the match remains uncertain, but the Norwegian Federation has committed to ensuring the funds will be directed to legitimate aid efforts. In response, the Israeli soccer federation urged Norway to also publicly denounce the violent actions of Hamas, particularly the attacks that took place on October 7, 2023, which included hostage-taking. Their statement, reported by The Telegraph, suggested the need for due diligence in ensuring that assistance does not inadvertently benefit terrorist groups or controversial industries like whaling, a subject that has drawn international scrutiny toward Norway.
The Norwegian federation is coordinating with UEFA and local authorities to enhance security measures for the upcoming match, which may result in a tightened attendance capacity at Ullevaal Stadium—typically boasting a crowd of 26,000—by approximately 3,000 seats due to heightened security concerns. Since the October attacks, Israel has struggled to host international matches due to safety issues, relocating their recent “home” game against Norway to Hungary, where Norway triumphed 4-2 in March.
Italy’s Stance on Israel’s Participation
Currently, Norway leads its qualifying group, which also includes Italy and Israel. With two upcoming qualifiers against Israel slated for the next two months, the Italian Soccer Coaches’ Association (AIAC) has formally requested the Italian Football Federation to advocate for Israel’s suspension from international soccer competitions. In a letter intended for UEFA and FIFA, AIAC’s board argued for the urgent need to address the severe casualties, including among athletes and coaching staff.
AIAC Vice President Giancarlo Camolese stated that the association believes it is important to speak out against the ongoing violence rather than simply ignore the geopolitical context.
Italy’s matches against Israel are set to occur on neutral ground in Hungary and later at their home venue in Udine, with the AIAC’s resolution underscoring the need for sporting organizations to take a stance amidst the humanitarian crisis.
