Irish Government backs FAI decision to play Nations League matches against Israel (thejournal.ie)

• Government supports FAI decision to play Israel; cites UEFA/FIFA rules as limiting options.
• Sinn Féin and Social Democrats propose Dáil motion to boycott matches over Gaza genocide concerns.
• Occupied Territories Bill to be enacted without services ban, drawing opposition criticism.

"The Irish Government has supported the Football Association of Ireland's (FAI) decision to fulfill upcoming Nations League fixtures against Israel, despite calls from opposition parties for a boycott. Minister for Sport Charlie McConalogue stated that the government should lead through political channels, not sports. Sinn Féin and the Social Democrats are bringing a Dáil motion calling for a boycott, which would result in a six-point forfeit. The debate also touches on the Occupied Territories Bill, which the government aims to enact before the summer recess but without a ban on trade in services."