Downing Street is calling on the Football Association (FA) to do more in showing support for the victims of Hamas' attack on Israel. The FA faced criticism for not lighting up Wembley's iconic arch in the colors of the Israeli flag during the men's match against Australia on Friday. The arch has previously been lit up in solidarity with Ukraine and Turkey.
Growing Calls for Action
The England team will be playing against Italy tonight, and there are increasing calls for the FA to take further action. Last week, the players wore black armbands and observed a minute's silence. Now, there are suggestions that the stadium in north-west London should be lit up in blue and white, the colors of the Israeli flag, as a sign of support.
Number 10's Response
A spokesperson for Number 10 stated that the FA has shown support in the past and should continue to do so. They emphasized the importance of the UK demonstrating solidarity with Israel, given the horrors the country has endured. The spokesperson also acknowledged that there is more that the FA can do to show support for the victims of the attack.
Criticism and Resignation
Rabbi Alex Goldberg, who chaired the FA's Faith in Football network, stepped down in protest against the decision not to light up the Wembley arch. The criticism extends beyond the UK, with Moshe Zuares, the boss of the Israeli Football Association, also expressing disappointment.
In response to the backlash, the FA issued a statement last week, pledging to remember the innocent victims of the "devastating" events in Israel and Palestine during the two home games.
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