JERUSALEM (AP) Qatar may hope soccer fans ignore politics at the first World Cup in the Middle East. But Israel and Iran, foes locked in conflicts across the region, are bringing sensitive flashpoints to the tournament’s doorstep.
Israelis, long shunned in Qatar, seek region's acceptance and chance to see Gulf emirate, while Iranian players will be watched for acts of solidarity with ongoing protests
Qatar may hope that soccer fans will ignore politics at the first World Cup in the Middle East, but Israel and Iran are bringing sensitive flashpoints to the tournament's doorstep.
Qatar may hope soccer fans ignore politics at the first World Cup in the Middle East. But Israel and Iran, foes locked in conflicts across the region, are bringing sensitive flashpoints to the tournament’s doorstep. Israel is not competing, but it sees the massive spectacle as a way to further integrate into the Middle East…
Qatar may hope soccer fans ignore politics at the first World Cup in the Middle East. But Israel and Iran, foes locked in conflicts across the region, are bringing sensitive flashpoints to the tournament's doorstep.