Nothing can smooth the relationship between Israel and its Arab neighbors. Abraham Afi louzoun, Director of the Israeli Federation of Soccer declared Israel will try and block Qatar from its bid to host the 2022 Soccer World Cup. Citing inability of Israeli fans to attend the championship, due to the animosity that they will face in Qatar.
Mr. Louzoun who is also a member of the FIFA delegation announced his is still awaiting a response from the Qatari authorities regarding safety measures that could be put to ensure the safety of the Israeli fans. Mr. Louzoun also pointed out, “Qatar, a year ago reduced its diplomatic mission to Israel” and “that is the reason we decided to vote against Qatar’s bid to host the World Cup Championship”.
Mr. Louzoun as the head of his country’s soccer federation and a member of FIFA should advocate for the safety of soccer fans everywhere. It is premature however, to be concerned of the Israeli fans safety in Qatar twelve years before the event, granted Qatar wins the bid to host the games. Mr. Louzoun is making a political statement that is ineffective at best and counterproductive to any amend attempts with the country of Qatar at worst.