JERUSALEM (JTA) — An Iranian soccer federation official reportedly resigned after his office sent New Year’s greetings to Israel.
Mohammad-Manour Azimzadeh, who heads the Iran Football Federation’s foreign relations office, quit over the gaffe, and the federation’s president apologized, according to reports.
The foreign relations office had sent New Year’s greetings to all members of FIFA, soccer’s global federation, but forgot to omit Israel, which is called the "Zionist entity," from its list.
Israel’s soccer federation replied positively to the message, according to reports.
Iranian athletes do not compete against Israeli athletes, including in the Olympics.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
