# Ireland refuse handshake with Israel and wear black armbands in Nations League draw

https://mins.news/en/item/85680

- Al Jazeera, 2026-10-04 21:30 UTC
- Sports
- Original: https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2026/10/4/ireland-refuse-handshake-with-israel-and-don-armbands-in-nations-league-tie?traffic_source=rss

> Republic of Ireland players again wore black armbands and bowed their heads during Israel’s anthem to honour Palestinians killed in Gaza before their second UEFA Nations League match. Captain Caoimhin Kelleher refused to shake Israel captain Dor Peretz’s hand. The game, moved to a neutral venue amid calls to boycott Israel over its war in Gaza, ended 1-1 behind closed doors.

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