Ireland stars REFUSE to shake hands of Israeli opponents and bow their heads during national anthem after goalkeeper withdrew from squad in protest at 'atrocities in Gaza'

Several Ireland players refused to shake hands with their Israeli opponents and bowed their heads during Israel's national anthem in a football match marked by political protest. The fixture was preceded by significant controversy, with the Irish team facing pressure to boycott the game due to Israel's military actions in Gaza. An Irish goalkeeper had previously withdrawn from the squad in protest against what they described as 'atrocities in Gaza.'