KUALA LUMPUR: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) today strongly denounced the Israeli occupation actions against the President of the Palestine Football Association (PFA), General Jibril Alrjoub.

On Wednesday, Alrjoub was briefly detained by Israeli occupation forces as he returned to the West Bank from Amman. Although he was released, his passport was impounded, and he has been ordered to appear for further ‘questioning’ on Thursday.

‘This incident comes at a critical time as Palestine are preparing for their historic debut in the AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to 26. Having reached the third stage of the FIFA World Cup qualifying for the first time ever, Palestine face Korea Republic in Seoul on September 5, 2024 in a Group B match,’ the AFC said in a press statement.

‘The AFC is alarmed by the violation of General Alrjoub’s fundamental rights, particularly his freedom of movement to conduct his duties as a sports leader, especially as the President of the PFA. The AFC emphasises the need for internatio
nal bodies and governments to uphold the basic rights of individuals, regardless of political circumstances,’ it added.

‘This situation poses significant challenges for the Palestinian national team as they prepare for the AFC Asian Qualifiers. The AFC expresses its full support for the Palestinian team and their right to compete without external pressures,’ it concluded.

Source: Palestine News and Information Agency – WAFA