THE Premier League has expressed its opposition to the acts of wanton violence that have claimed hundreds of innocent lives on both sides of the bloody conflict in Israel and Gaza between Israeli authorities and militant group Hamas.
Blood of innocent men, women and children have been shed in both Israel and Palestine, especially in Gaza, since Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israeli settlements days ago.
While governments, prominent organisations and individuals across the have taken sides in the conflict, the Premier League has stayed neutral while condemning the brutality on both sides.
“The Premier League is shocked and saddened by the escalating crisis in Israel and Gaza, and strongly condemns the horrific and brutal acts of violence against innocent civilians,” the body said in a statement today.
“We hope for peace, and our heartfelt sympathies are with the victims, their families and the communities impacted.”
The Premier League is on break this weekend due to international football and the clubs and players will honour the victims of the conflict when the competition resumes the following weekend.
“As a mark of respect for all those affected, Premier League players, managers and match officials will wear black armbands and observe a moment’s silence at the fixtures taking place from Saturday 21 to Monday 23 October,” the English top flight added.
“The League will also make a donation to the British Red Cross to support the aid efforts helping those in urgent need.”
Several clubs responded to the Premier League statement by promising to pay tribute to the victims of the crisis.
