We believe that football is a bridge to peace and an opportunity to advance friendship and solidarity between people where the alternative would be conflict and dispute. Boycotting Israeli football will do nothing to advance the legitimate aims of the Palestinian people for self determination. Israel is a member of UEFA and it’s football association and clubs are committed to using football to bridge divides and to counter racism and discrimination.

The friendly match between Cardiff City and Ironi Kiryat Shemona should be above politics and should not be used as a vehicle to prolong an international conflict. The match should go ahead as planned and should be played in a spirit of friendship and fair play. We fully support Cardiff City in playing this match, and believe it should act as an appetiser for the Euro 2016 qualifier between Wales and Israel in September.