Israel Delays Demolition of Palestinian Children's Football Pitch Amid International Outcry

Wed Jan 21 2026 20:42:01 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The Israeli authorities have postponed the demolition of a football pitch for Palestinian children in Bethlehem, following a widespread campaign against the decision.

Israel has put on hold the demolition of the Aida Youth Centre's football pitch in Bethlehem, a site highly significant for local children. The authorities claimed it was built without proper permits and posed security risks, but an international petition with over half a million signatures prompted the delay. Although a reprieve has been granted, the community remains vigilant against potential future threats to the pitch.

Israel has postponed the demolition of a Palestinian children's football club in the city of Bethlehem, in the occupied West Bank.

It said the Aida Youth Centre's pitch was constructed without the necessary permits. It claimed the demolition was necessary for security reasons.

An international campaign to save it, including a petition with more than half a million signatures, appears to have forced the authorities to reconsider. The club, however, said it had not yet received any official notification.

The pitch, although small and somewhat dilapidated, serves over 200 young players from the nearby Aida refugee camp, where many families still live under the shadow of the Israeli security barrier.

Despite the struggles and challenges, the local community has rallied, posting videos on social media and gaining support from key figures in international football.

In a recent statement, the Israeli military reiterated its security concerns regarding the pitch's location close to the concrete barrier, yet reports suggest a political decision led to its temporary reprieve.

As the Aida Youth Centre members continue their fight, they remain hopeful but cautious, knowing that threats to their cherished field may return when public attention wanes.