The recent escalation between Israel and Hezbollah has significantly disrupted the football scenes in Israel and Lebanon.
While in Israel, the impact focused particularly on the northern regions, in Lebanon, it is cross-country.
The report was edited on Tuesday, September 24, with the announcement of the Lebanese Football Association on the postponement of all its football activities until further notice.
Israel
Match Postponements
The high-profile match between Maccabi Haifa and Beitar Jerusalem has been rescheduled to October 1.
All matches from Haifa northward have been postponed due to security concerns.
All cup matches planned for midweek (Wednesday, September 24) are postponed.
All the coming weekend’s lower league matches, as well as youth matches in Haifa surroundings and north, are postponed.
Gathering Restrictions
The Israeli government has banned gatherings of more than 10 people in northern areas, directly affecting football matches and fan attendance.
Venue Changes Under Consideration
The football authorities are examining the possibility of switching hosting duties for all northern clubs in both the Premier and National Leagues.
Lebanon
Despite the tensions, Lebanese football has shown resilience at first, before a full postponement of all football activities on Tuesday, Septmeber 24, morning.
Opening day completed, future in dark
The Lebanese Premier League successfully completed its first matchday without interruptions, yet the next matchday is under consideration due to upcoming developments and escalation.
Organized Political Expressions
Matches featured banners and signs supporting the victims in the Israeli Air Force strikes, especially in the Dahieh district (which is known as Hezbollah’s stronghold), indicating the political undertones present in Lebanese football during this time.
Second Division Adjustments
The Executive Committee of the Lebanese Football Association has rescheduled a postponed Second Division League match that was supposed to take place on Monday.
Full Postponement
On Tuesday, Septmeber 24, the Executive Committee of the Lebanese Football Federation has decided to POSTPONE ALL FOOTBALL matches until a date to be determined later.
Conclusion
The contrasting responses in Israel and Lebanon highlight the region's complex relationship between football and geopolitics. While Israeli football faces significant disruptions and potential long-term scheduling challenges, Lebanese football continued with a degree of normalcy, albeit with visible political expressions within stadiums, until Monday afternoon, September 23. Yet, the intensifying bombings and rising internal immigration from south to north of the country, has brought the Lebanese Football Association to announce a full postponement of the league on Tuesday, Septmebr 24.
This situation underscores the sport's resilience in times of conflict and its role as a community expression and solidarity platform. As tensions continue, both nations' football associations will likely need to remain flexible and responsive to ensure the safety of players and fans while maintaining the integrity of their respective leagues.
From Israel's stunner vs France to Qatar's late winner, here is a recap of the latest Middle Eastern football action and results.
Both teams seek vital points in Muscat as Oman and Palestine meet in an emotional World Cup qualifier amid challenging regional circumstances.
Yarden Shua’s debut goal secures Israel’s 1-0 win over Belgium. Jaber, Abu Fani dominate midfield amid wartime challenges.
From Israel's stunner vs France to Qatar's late winner, here is a recap of the latest Middle Eastern football action and results.
Both teams seek vital points in Muscat as Oman and Palestine meet in an emotional World Cup qualifier amid challenging regional circumstances.
Israel seek first Nations League points vs France at Stade de France, as Ben Shimon's squad returns key players amid tight security measures.
Israeli football’s top flight returned to Friday after years. Amid war, Jerusalem is becoming home to all clubs and fans.
Saudi Pro League delivers as Al-Ittihad's electric fanbase powers Jeddah derby win before Ronaldo's Al-Nassr draws Al-Hilal in a pulsating clash.
Egyptian giants Al Ahly defeated UAE's Al Ain 3-0 in FIFA Club World Cup second round, with a provocative goal celebration.
Palestinian club Hilal Al Quds draws 0-0 in AFC Challenge League return, featuring first-ever British player in Palestinian football
The Persian Gulf Pro League's 8th round proceeds with fans, while international matches remain suspended following overnight military tensions.
Asian World Cup qualifiers unfold amidst regional tensions. Key matches have been relocated, and teams seek redemption in high-stakes football drama.
UEFA Nations League clash labeled "high-risk". Exceptional security measures in place for Israel vs France. No home games for Israel yet.
Iran-Qatar match relocated, Lebanese football suspended, and Ronaldo voices safety concerns as regional tensions impact Asian football competitions.
Lebanon's national football team withdraws from Vietnam tournament due to ongoing war, impacting Asian Cup qualifier preparations.
FIFA probes Israel over Palestinian discrimination claims. UN experts urge action on Israeli clubs beyond Green Line. Tensions rise in football politics.
Hassan Hilu, Jubilo Iwata defender, denies Palestinian team rumors and reveals his desire to play for another national team selection amid J1 League relegation battles.
As Iran launched rockets toward Israel, Sepahan secured a 4-0 ACL win. Rising tensions in the Middle East have an impact on football.
Israel's national team prepares for crucial UEFA Nations League matches against France and Italy, training continues despite air raid sirens.
Zamalek wins CAF Super Cup in Riyadh penalty shootout vs Al Ahly. Cairo Derby rivals face off in Saudi Arabia for continental glory.
Palestine faces Iraq and Kuwait in crucial 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Home game relocated to Qatar amid regional complexities.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah forces schedule changes in Israeli leagues, while Lebanese football continues with political undertones.
Lebanese Premier League opener overshadowed by Israeli strike on Hezbollah commander. Football fervour meets geopolitical tension in Beirut.
AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers: 45 teams vie for China 2025 spots. Defending champs Uzbekistan face tough competition. Kicks off Sept 21.
CAF Super Cup 2024: Al Ahly vs Zamalek in Riyadh. Saudi Arabia flexes soft power, hosting African football's epic clash.
AFC Champions League Two 2024/25 begins with 32 teams from 23 nations. New format features home-and-away group matches from Sept to Dec.
From Salah's prowess to Güler's potential, Middle Eastern talents are set to make waves in this season's revamped UEFA Champions League.
AFC Champions League Elite 2024/25: 24 top Asian clubs compete with an enhanced prize pool, new technology and a new format.
Ronaldo's absence deflates AFC opener in Iraq. Fans resell tickets as Al Nassr faces Al Shorta without their star in new league format.
Al Nassr faces Al Ahli in a high-stakes clash, with Ronaldo and Mahrez starring, as coach Luis Castro battles to save his job.
Palestine and Jordan meet in a crucial 2026 World Cup Asian Qualifier in Kuala Lumpur. Both teams vie for a World Cup spot amid heightened regional tensions after a recent terror attack.
Israel hosts Italy in UEFA Nations League in Budapest due to Middle East conflict. Both teams seek redemption after recent struggles.
Yarden Shua’s debut goal secures Israel’s 1-0 win over Belgium. Jaber, Abu Fani dominate midfield amid wartime challenges.