According to the Annadolu News Agency, Turkish Football Association Chairman Hagioman Oulu has sent a letter to leaders of FIFA, UEFA and all national football federations, calling for a complete ban on Israel from participating in any sporting events.
Hagiomanoglu wrote in the letter: "Football is more than a sport. It is a language that transcends national borders, links different cultures together, cultivates friendships, and strengthens unity among all ethnic groups. Under the guidance of these values, the illegal, completely inhuman and unacceptable situations created by Israel in Gaza and its surrounding areas are deeply concerned about us."
"The situation today has long been desperate, but in recent days, with the intervention of various institutions, the situation has reached a new level of urgency."
Hagiomanoglu also stressed that governments around the world have condemned genocide and demanded sanctions against Israel. Football clubs, players and fans, as well as various sports agencies, have strongly opposed Israel's actions.
Hagiomanoglu stressed that FIFA and UEFA banned Russia from international football matches just four days after the start of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, but did not take the same measures when it came to Israel. He said: "Although the sports community and football institutions claim to be defenders of civic values and peace, they have been silent for too long. FIFA and UEFA must now take action to immediately suspend all sporting competitions Israel participates until its member federations comply with the regulations of FIFA and UEFA."