**Palestinian Club Football to Restart in September After Suspension Due to Gaza Conflict**
The Palestinian Football Association has announced the resumption of football activities, marking a significant return to sport after a nearly three-year hiatus caused by the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The league is set to begin on September 4, 2026, as confirmed by association President Jibril Rajoub during a news conference held in Ramallah.
The suspension of sports leagues, including professional football, was initiated following the outbreak of hostilities on October 7, 2023, which has had a profound impact on the region and its communities. The association has named the upcoming tournament the “Thousand Martyrs’ Cup” to honor the 1,014 Palestinian athletes who lost their lives during the conflict, as reported by the association.
This tournament will see participation from over 200 clubs, comprising 146 teams from the Israeli-occupied West Bank, 44 from Gaza, and 36 from Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon. The matches are scheduled to commence simultaneously across these three locations, symbolizing unity and resilience among Palestinian sports communities.
Rajoub emphasized the challenges faced by the Palestinian people due to the war, stating that the difficult conditions led to the suspension of sports activities. However, he expressed a strong belief in the power of sport to serve as a symbol of hope and life for Palestinians. "We have not lost our Palestinian national will, nor have we lost our belief that sport will remain a symbol of hope and life," he remarked.
The association has also highlighted the financial difficulties that clubs and the governing body have encountered during this period. Rajoub urged FIFA and other international federations to support Palestinian sports and to protect the rights of players and clubs, advocating for their ability to participate in sports with “freedom and dignity.”
In a related context, the Palestinian Football Association previously voiced concerns regarding FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s proposal to allow private investors to open tournaments, which they felt could undermine the integrity of the sport. Rajoub pointed out that many are questioning FIFA's commercial direction and called for a more equitable application of regulations across all member nations.
Moreover, the association has called for FIFA to impose sanctions on Israeli clubs operating in settlements within the occupied West Bank, which are deemed illegal under international law. Rajoub emphasized that they are not seeking special privileges but rather the legitimate rights that are guaranteed by international sporting laws and charters.
As the Palestinian football community prepares for this significant return to the pitch, the resumption of play is seen not only as a revival of sport but also as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Palestinian people in the face of adversity. The upcoming tournament is expected to bring together players and fans, fostering a sense of unity and hope as they navigate the challenges ahead.