30.03.2026 11:01
Menashe Zalka, who plays in the Israeli Premier League, was seen with a weapon during a military operation in Lebanon, causing a significant backlash in the football world. Videos shared on social media showed Zalka firing an assault rifle. This situation has brought renewed calls for FIFA to impose sanctions on the Israel Football Association.
The images of Menashe Zalka, who plays in the Israeli Premier League, armed during a military operation in southern Lebanon have caused a huge uproar in the football world. Following the incident, calls for sanctions against FIFA have resurfaced.
ALLEGATIONS OF PARTICIPATION IN MILITARY OPERATION
In the images shared on social media, Zalka, dressed in an Israeli army uniform, was seen firing a machine gun and using a grenade. It was claimed that the video, confirmed by Al Jazeera, belonged to one of Israel's military attacks in southern Lebanon.
REACTIONS FROM THE FOOTBALL WORLD
Palestinian football officials described Zalka's participation in the military operation as "unacceptable," while many football fans and experts called on FIFA to take action. The player's actions were harshly criticized in social media posts.
FIFA AND ISRAEL FEDERATION DEBATE BACK ON THE AGENDA
Following the developments, calls for the Israeli Football Federation to be punished by FIFA have risen again. It was reminded that the FIFA Disciplinary Committee had previously fined the federation for discrimination violations but had suspended the penalty.
CRITICISM OF DOUBLE STANDARDS
Some football authorities and fans criticized FIFA and UEFA for not imposing sanctions regarding Israel, comparing it to the swift sanctions imposed on Russia.