In all matches under the responsibility of the Israel Football Association, from U17 level and above, play will be halted at a designated minute. The exact minute will be determined ahead of the weekend in accordance with the number of murder victims recorded since the beginning of the year
The Israel Football Association will hold a social and educational initiative during the upcoming weekend across all competitions under its jurisdiction, from U17 leagues through senior divisions, as part of the fight against the rising violence and crime affecting Arab society.
In every match, play will be stopped at the designated minute. Upon the stoppage, the referee will gather both teams into a circle at the center of the pitch. For 60 seconds, a special statement will be read aloud, calling for an end to violence, for personal and social responsibility, and for the reinforcement of the core values of sport — tolerance, respect, and mutual understanding.
The IFA emphasizes that football plays a central and meaningful role in shaping the next generation, and that it carries a moral responsibility to stand at the forefront of the social struggle and serve as a clear voice against violence and crime.
IFA Chairman Shino Zoaretz stated: “The fight against violence and crime in Arab society is not the struggle of one sector — it is a struggle of Israeli society as a whole. When lives are taken, we are all harmed. Football in Israel connects Jews and Arabs, center and periphery, religious and secular communities. Out of a sense of national and public responsibility, we choose to raise a clear voice of solidarity, mutual responsibility, and shared destiny. Our pitches are places of sporting competition — but also of respect, equality, and education. Our message is clear and unequivocal: there is no place for violence. There is a place for life, for partnership, and for a safer future for all of us.”
Acting Chairman Bassem Suleiman added: “Our hearts ache in the face of the violence and crime that are harming Arab society and claiming precious lives. Football is much more than a game — it is a shared language, a vehicle for values-based education, and a powerful public platform. We choose to pause the game for a moment to remind everyone of the sanctity of life and the responsibility that rests on each and every one of us. Through the pitches, through both young and senior players alike, we deliver a clear message — no to violence, yes to life, yes to mutual respect, and yes to a better and safer future for our children.”
Bat-El Garbi, CEO of “Values in Sport,” said: “The IFA’s initiative demonstrates the tremendous power of the sporting arena to influence beyond the field itself. Stopping the matches is not only a symbolic act, but an educational and social statement reminding us that the fight against violence is a shared responsibility. Especially at a time when many young people in Arab society are facing insecurity and a sense of lost hope, sports clubs play a critical role as community anchors that foster belonging, resilience, and positive opportunities. We see this move as an important step that reinforces the understanding that sport can be a genuine engine for social change.”