A coalition of top Irish footballers, musicians, and actors is calling on the Football Association of Ireland to boycott an upcoming UEFA Nations League match against Israel.
In an open letter from the group Irish Sport for Palestine, signatories accuse Israel of committing "genocide" in Gaza and violating UEFA and FIFA rules by playing matches on occupied Palestinian territory. Israel denies these allegations.
The letter-titled "Stop the Game"-is signed by League of Ireland stars, former national team coach Brian Kerr, two-time women's player of the year Louise Quinn, rock band Fontaines D.C., hip-hop trio Kneecap, singer Christy Moore, and Oscar-nominated actor Stephen Rea.
Shamrock Rovers captain Roberto Lopes said the humanitarian crisis in Palestine must take priority over sport.
Ireland is scheduled to host Israel at Dublin's Aviva Stadium on October 4. A separate away fixture on September 27 will likely be at a neutral venue.
The Irish government opposes the boycott, with Prime Minister Micheal Martin saying the matches should go ahead.
In February, FAI Chief Executive David Courell warned that skipping the game could harm Ireland's standing in future competitions, including possible disqualification.
A poll by the Irish Football Supporters Partnership found 76% of respondents oppose the fixture.