Australian authorities have denied entry to the Palestine Football Association’s president Jibril Rajoub ahead of the “Palestinian” team’s World Cup qualifier against the Socceroos this week in my hometown of Perth.
Given he:
- Supports terrorism against Israel, including the use of nukes
- Accused Israel of being responsible for the October 7 massacre
- Has publicly expressed antisemitic sentiments
- Was banned by FIFA for one-year for “promoting and glorifying terrorism; inciting hatred and violence; promoting racism; and preventing the use of the game of football in order to build a bridge for peace”, when he urged fans to burn Argentina shirts bearing the name and pictures of Lionel Messi at a warm-up game in Israel for the 2018 World Cup
you’d be forgiven for believing he was rejected on “character grounds.”
But – believe it or not – he was denied entry based on a “technicality.”
Reports the head of the Palestine Football Association has been denied entry into Australia is a matter for the government, according to Football Australia.
The Socceroos are scheduled to take on Palestine in a World Cup qualifier in Perth on Tuesday night.
7 News reports Palestine Football Association President Jibril Rajoub was denied entry over a “technicality” in his visa application and was not onboard a private plane carrying players that touched down in Perth on Saturday.
But don’t let facts get in the way of serial liar Nasser Mashni:
Of course, it doesn’t bother Mashni that Rajoub is an antisemitic terror supporter, because that’s a bonus, not a flaw!
Not that I would expect anything less from Mashni, but Football Australia? Shame on you.
A spokesperson for Football Australia said the organisation provides visa support to to all visiting football delegations, in line with responsibilities as the host member association.
“Football Australia is aware of the situation regarding the President of the Palestine Football Association, Jibril Rajoub,” they said.
“This is a matter for the Australian Government.”
The sporting body will continue to work with the federal government to facilitate the arrival of football stakeholders, they added.
