FIFA and the Board of Peace have signed a partnership agreement to attract investments from world leaders and institutions to support sustainable development plans in conflict-affected areas through football.
In a statement, FIFA explained that the partnership includes the construction of 50 mini-pitches near schools and residential areas in Gaza, five full-size pitches in various neighborhoods, a state-of-the-art FIFA Academy, and a new national stadium with a capacity of 20,000 spectators.
The agreement will also raise US$75 million for football-related projects in Gaza.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said that, with the support of the Peace Board, FIFA will lead the partnership – established to make an impact at every stage.
The program will also focus on creating job opportunities, engaging youth, organizing football leagues for youth of both genders, fostering community participation, and stimulating local businesses.
Board of Peace holds first meeting
The Board of Peace, established by US President Donald Trump, held its first meeting on Tuesday, focusing on funding reconstruction in the Gaza Strip with the aim of rebuilding the area after the disarmament of Hamas.
Trump announced a package of international donations to Gaza as part of what he described as an “investment in stability and peace,” confirming that Washington would provide $10 billion to the board, with Japan prepared to host a major international fundraising conference.
He explained that Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, the UAE, Morocco, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, and Kuwait had already contributed more than seven billion to the relief package.
Hamas demanded that any political process or arrangements concerning the Gaza Strip be contingent upon a complete cessation of hostilities and the lifting of the blockade.
This statement came in response to the UN Peace Council session on Gaza held on Thursday.
The movement called on the international community and the parties participating in the Board to take practical steps to compel Israel to stop its attacks, open the crossings, allow the unrestricted entry of humanitarian aid, and immediately begin reconstruction efforts.
The Palestinian resistance committees stated that any international effort must prioritize a complete cessation of Israeli aggression and the lifting of the siege.
Israel has meanwhile imposed severe restrictions on thousands of Palestinians who flocked to occupied Jerusalem to perform the first Friday prayer of the holy month of Ramadan at Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
