The FA will not light up Wembley arch in colours of Israeli flag for England vs Australia
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The FA have decided not to light up the Wembley arch in the colours of the Israeli flag ahead of England's international friendly with Australia - but have confirmed they will 'remember victims of the devastating events in Israel and Palestine'.
Israel was attacked by Hamas on Sunday, with the attacks killing over 1,300 people. BBC News reported on Wednesday that 17 British nationals are dead or missing.
Meanwhile, over 1,200 people were killed following Israeli retaliatory attacks on Gaza.
Earlier this week, it was revealed that UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin wrote a letter to the president of the Israeli FA, expressing his 'profound sorrow' at the 'tragic acts of violence that occurred in Israel'.
He added: "My heart goes out to all the victims and their families during these difficult times. It is an unimaginable tragedy, and the pain and sorrow are profound and resonate across the entire football community.
"We sincerely hope no-one will ever again experience such grief."
The UK government wrote a letter to sports bodies earlier this week, encouraging them to show support for the victims of the Hamas attacks.
The FA have confirmed they will not light up the Wembley arch - although have announced plans to pay tribute to victims later this week.
Wembley remembers the victims of the conflict in Israel and Palestine.
— The FA (@FA) October 12, 2023
A period of silence will be held before kick-off against Australia, while black armbands will also be worn.
In a statement, the FA say they will 'remember the innocent victims of the devastating events in Israel and Palestine', and added: "Our thoughts are with them, and their families and friends in England and Australia, and with all the communities who are affected by this ongoing conflict.
"We stand for humanity and an end to the death, violence, fear and suffering."
The FA will also only allow flags and kits of competing inside Wembley for the Australia fixture, and the Euro 2024 qualifier against Italy next Tuesday.
Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: England, Wembley Stadium, Football, Australia, Italy
