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August 5, 2015

West Bank & Gaza Soccer Teams Allowed to Play for First Time Since 2000 
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A Palestinian soccer team in the West Bank will face off against its
rival team in Gaza for the first time in 15 years. Israel approved the
travel plans for the West Bank team after Palestine threatened to call
for Israel's suspension from FIFA over the government's attempts to
restrict soccer players' and coaches' movement in and out of Palestinian
territories. Islam Batran from the West Bank team Al-Ahly spoke about
his excitement over the visit.

Islam Batran: "I cannot describe this feeling. This is a historic visit.
This is the first time that we visit Gaza, and we are surprised how much
the Gazans are amazing people. We also thank the people of Gaza for the
hosting, and the audience of the Shejaiya club for their festive
welcoming, and the journalists and everybody. It is a truly amazing
thing."

 

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