UEFA and FIFA face potential disciplinary action from ICC over Israel policy

On February 16, a group of Palestinian footballers, clubs, and advocacy groups submitted a referral to the International Criminal Court (ICC) targeting Gianni Infantino and Aleksander Čeferin, the heads of FIFA and UEFA. The 120-page filing alleges that both leaders are responsible for “aiding and abetting war crimes” and “crimes against humanity,” specifically related to the transfer of civilian populations into occupied territories and apartheid.

The referral marks a significant development in the case, as it is the first time sports leaders have been accused of these crimes. The complaint highlights the alleged normalization of Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian territory, which is said to contribute to the transfer of civilians into the area, contrary to international law.

According to the ICC’s Rome Statute, Article 8(2)(b)(viii), normalizing colonization can be considered a war crime. Additionally, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has previously ruled that Israeli settlements in the West Bank are “unlawful” and require Israel to cease all new settlement activities.

The complaint also references a resolution from the United Nations General Assembly, which found the settlements to be “unlawful.” The referral argues that the continued sanctioning of sanctioned Israeli clubs in West Bank settlements falls under the definition of aiding and abetting apartheid, a crime against humanity.

FIFA Chief Gianni Infantino has previously stated his opposition to suspending Israeli teams from participation in global football, calling it “a defeat.” UEFA leadership has also taken no action despite facing demands for suspension. The ICC will now review the referral and determine whether to proceed with an investigation.

The case highlights the significant stakes of holding corporate leaders accountable for their actions. With over five billion fans worldwide, the impact of this charge on the sports community is substantial.

Source: Al Jazeera