Ireland beat Israel but no handshakes due to war in Gaza

The Republic of Ireland faced off against Israel in a Nations League match on Sunday, held in Debrecen, Hungary. The atmosphere was somber, as the Irish players wore black armbands in tribute to the ongoing war in Gaza. They also bowed their heads during the Israeli national anthem and skipped the customary pre-match handshakes and exchange of pennants. The game took place in an almost empty stadium.

Troy Parrott opened the scoring for Ireland with a goal on 14 minutes, and Jack Moylan added a third goal in the 25th minute. The match concluded with an Ireland victory, with a final score of 3-0.

However, the lack of gestures between the two teams sparked controversy. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar harshly criticized Ireland, accusing them of being "on the wrong side of history" for their players' actions. Saar referenced historical instances involving the Irish team and Nazi Germany, as well as Ireland's neutrality during World War II and the condolences extended by then-prime minister Eamon de Valera after Hitler's death.

Saar argued that nearly 90 years had passed, yet Ireland still finds itself on the wrong side of history.

The game had been in question earlier in the week as Ireland's players voted to participate, despite strong pressure to boycott the match. Only goalkeeper Gavin Buzunu withdrew from the match, expressing that it would be wrong to participate in either fixture due to concerns over the killing of innocent people in Gaza.

Ireland has a history of supporting the Palestinian cause, stemming from its own experience under British rule. In 2024, Dublin formally recognized a Palestinian state alongside Spain and Norway and has consistently criticized Israel over its conduct in Gaza. Israel strongly rejects any accusations that its actions in Gaza constitute genocide.