The toll of Israeli aggression: How sport in the region is paying the price

Israel's military operations over the past year have wreaked havoc in the region, escalating the conflict beyond Palestine into neighboring countries.

Lebanon, in particular, has suffered tremendously, with over 1,974 deaths and 9,384 injuries since October 8, 2023. Civilians have borne much of the brunt as the violence has escalated in recent weeks. The country now faces an overwhelming humanitarian crisis, with more than a million people displaced, compounding the unresolved trauma from events like the 2020 Beirut explosion.

This widespread destruction has also had a profound impact on the sports world. Many regional sports competitions have been abruptly halted, leaving athletes and fans in disarray. Palestine and Lebanon, both drawn into the same group for the FIFA World Cup qualifiers' second round, could not host matches at home due to the ongoing violence. Lebanon had to face Palestine in Sharjah, while Palestine played Lebanon in Doha. These relocations posed logistical challenges, but the emotional burden on players and fans alike was even greater.

The Palestinian Football Association (PFA) has formally requested that FIFA suspend Israel from international football, pointing to the immense toll the conflict has taken on Palestinian athletes, with 92 footballers having lost their lives. In Lebanon, the Lebanese Football Association (LFA) has indefinitely postponed all Premier League matches, leaving once-vibrant stadiums eerily silent, reflecting the despair felt across the nation. Sports, traditionally a source of joy and escape, have been sidelined as the conflict rages on.

The instability isn’t limited to Palestine and Lebanon. Iran, following the death of Hezbollah’s leader, launched missile strikes on Israel, exacerbating regional tensions. This violence has also disrupted international competitions; for instance, Indian football club Mohun Bagan had to cancel their AFC Champions League match in Iran due to security concerns.

For many in the region, sports have always been a source of hope and community, but even this refuge has been stripped away amid the ongoing violence.