The British government has issued a rare rebuke to the Football Association (FA) for its decision not to illuminate Wembley Stadium’s arch in blue and white in a show of solidarity with Israel, following the recent attacks by the Palestinian militant group, Hamas.
Wembley Stadium, the hallowed ground of England’s national football team, has previously lit its iconic arch with the colors of various nations, including Ukraine, Turkey, and others, as a symbol of solidarity. However, it has chosen not to do the same for Israel, according to media reports.
Lucy Frazer, Britain’s Secretary for Culture, Media, and Sport, expressed her disappointment in a statement, saying, “I am extremely disappointed … and have made my views clear to the FA. It is especially disappointing in light of the FA’s bold stance on other terrorist attacks in the recent past. Words and actions matter. The Government is clear: we stand with Israel.”
The British government recently projected the Israeli flag onto Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Downing Street residence. Additionally, the parliament illuminated itself in blue and white, aligning with similar demonstrations of support in other Western countries.
In response to the FA’s decision, the football body released a statement earlier on Thursday. It specified that flags and shirts showing support for victims of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict would not be allowed during England’s upcoming games against Australia and Italy at Wembley.
During the friendly match between England and Australia on Friday, both teams will wear black armbands as a sign of respect. A moment of silence will precede kick-off.
The FA explained in its statement, “On Friday evening, we will remember the innocent victims of the devastating events in Israel and Palestine.” However, the statement did not mention any plans for lighting up Wembley’s arch.
England is scheduled to host Italy in a European Championship qualifier on Tuesday.
