Israel captain Manor Solomon has condemned Irish football players for refusing to shake hands and protesting during their Nations League match in Hungary on Sunday, which Israel won 3-0. Ireland's squad, led by captain Dara O'Shea, boycotted pre-match handshakes and wore black armbands in recognition of lives lost in the Gaza conflict, whilst goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew entirely on ethical grounds. Solomon responded with inflammatory remarks, stating that Ireland "hate us and we don't like them" and claiming Israel is "ten times better" than their opponents, vowing to seek "revenge" in future fixtures.

The incident reflects escalating tensions surrounding Israel's international sporting participation, occurring weeks after 12 countries including the UK, France and Canada imposed sanctions on illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. Ireland's squad had held a four-hour meeting to decide whether to play at all, with some players considering withdrawal alongside Bazunu, though a significant majority ultimately voted to compete whilst protesting in their own manner. The "Stop The Game" campaign, organised by the pressure group Irish Sport for Palestine and backed by former managers and international players, has intensified calls for Irish athletes to boycott matches against Israel.