Ireland Players Vote to Play Israel Despite Boycott Calls

The Republic of Ireland's football team has voted to play two UEFA Nations League fixtures against Israel, despite facing intense pressure to boycott the matches due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The decision comes after a four-hour meeting among the players, who ultimately chose to play the matches in Hungary and Serbia. The controversy has sparked fierce debate across Irish society, with calls for a boycott from campaigners, politicians, and even some players. The Irish government and Football Association of Ireland (FAI) have also expressed their opposition to the matches going ahead.