Ireland's Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris has come out against boycotting the national football team's upcoming match against Israel, arguing that such a move would ultimately harm Ireland more than its opponent. Speaking on RTÉ radio today, Sunday, Harris emphasized the practical consequences amid growing political pressure in the pro-Palestinian nation following last week's UEFA Nations League draw, which placed Ireland in the same group as Israel.
The draw immediately sparked controversy, with calls for a boycott intensifying in Ireland. Harris acknowledged the broader sentiment, stating he shares a "general disgust" at the actions in the Middle East and the situation in Gaza. However, he urged careful consideration of the implications, saying, "We need to think about it deeply."
Harris clarified that a boycott would not impact Israel, as FIFA has decided not to expel the Israeli team. "The country that will actually get a red card here will be Ireland," he explained. He further noted, "I just think in this situation the Irish football team is the one that will lose and it will lose the opportunity," highlighting the potential damage to Ireland's qualification chances.
The Deputy Prime Minister's remarks follow strong opposition from political and sporting figures. Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald called for Ireland to refuse the matches, declaring that Israel should "get a red card." Similarly, former Ireland national team coach Brian Kerr previously urged the football association "to show some real courage and refuse to play against Israel."
An insider familiar with the details told "Hayom" that there is still ample time before the match against Ireland, but alternatives must be prepared in case Israel cannot travel for "obvious reasons." The source stressed that "the team doesn't need to be bothered by this, only those responsible for it."
Separately, Israel's away match in Kosovo is under intense security review due to extremist Islamist elements in the country, unrelated to bilateral relations. The fixture against Ireland is scheduled for October 4 in Ireland, followed by Israel's trip to Kosovo on November 14 under coach Ran Ben Shimon.
