UEFA postpones all matches scheduled in Israel until Oct. 17

By Can Erozden

UEFA on Sunday postponed all matches scheduled in Israel until Oct. 17 amid escalating tensions with Palestine.

"In light of the current security situation in Israel, UEFA has decided to postpone all matches scheduled in Israel in the next couple of weeks with new dates to be confirmed in due course," the European football's governing body's statement read.

- Postponed matches are as follows:

Israel vs. Switzerland (UEFA EURO 2024 qualifiers) on Oct. 12

Israel vs. Estonia (2025 UEFA Under-21 Championship qualification) on Oct. 12

Israel vs. Germany (2025 UEFA Under-21 Championship qualification) on Oct. 17

A mini tournament; 2024 UEFA Under-17 Championship that involves Israel, Belgium, Gibraltar and Wales from Oct. 11 to 17.

"UEFA reserves a few more days to assess whether the European Qualifiers 2024 match Kosovo – Israel can take place on the originally planned date of 15/10 or requires postponement," it said, adding that UEFA will "continue to closely monitor the situation" in Israel and will be in contact with teams before making decisions about new dates.

Palestinian group Hamas launched Operation Al-Aqsa Flood on Saturday, saying it was in response to the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and increased settler violence. It said it fired rockets and captured many Israelis.

In retaliation, the Israeli army initiated Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas, launching airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.