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Solidarity with Palestinians is more important than soccer qualification prospects

The greater loss would be failing to stand with those in need, writer argues

Letters to the Editor. Illustration: Paul Scott
The Irish Times - Letters to the Editor.
Tue Jun 09 2026 - 06:00 • 1 MIN READ

Sir, – Taoiseach Micheál Martin is reported to have stated he would hate to see the Ireland football team lose out on future qualification prospects, if the match between Ireland and Israel did not go ahead.

On the contrary, wouldn’t it be a great example to future generations and to have it recorded in the annals of history that this generation considered its solidarity with the Palestinian people in their hour of need more important than losing out on Ireland’s future soccer qualification prospects. – Yours, etc,

BRENDAN BUTLER,

Drumcondra,

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