Seamus Coleman on Israel Matches: 'Should Not Have Landed on Our Toes'

Seamus Coleman, Republic of Ireland defender, has spoken out on the controversy surrounding their upcoming Nations League matches against Israel, amidst the ongoing Middle East conflict. Coleman emphasized that the decision on whether to play should not fall on the players, stating it "should not have landed on our toes" and that he, as a person, knows the difference between right and wrong. The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has confirmed the matches will proceed, citing potential serious consequences if they withdraw. This decision comes despite growing pressure in Ireland for a boycott, with protests, including one by the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign at the Dáil, and a 'Stop The Game' campaign by Irish Sport For Palestine. The campaign highlights Israel's alleged breaches of Uefa and Fifa statutes regarding play on occupied Palestinian lands and accusations of apartheid and genocide, which Israel denies. The conflict escalated after a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel in October 2023, resulting in over 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages, followed by Israel's military response in Gaza where over 72,500 have been killed, according to Gaza's health ministry. Coleman, along with manager Heimir Hallgrimsson and captain Nathan Collins, has expressed discomfort, feeling the scheduling issue should be handled by governing bodies. The matches are scheduled for September 27 (at a neutral venue) and October 4 (in Dublin). Ireland is also set to host Qatar in a friendly on April 24. The situation reflects the challenges sports face in navigating geopolitical tensions.