KUWAIT CITY, July 4: The Palestinian Football Association has commended Kuwait's supportive stance towards hosting the Palestinian national team's home matches during the crucial phase of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. Both Kuwait and Palestine are part of the second group in the qualifiers, alongside South Korea, Iraq, Jordan, and Oman.

In an official statement, the Palestinian Federation expressed profound gratitude to the Kuwait Football Association for its positive decision regarding hosting the qualifying matches in Palestine. This historic opportunity marks the first instance of hosting such significant matches on Palestinian soil.

"We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our brothers at the Kuwaiti Federation for their solidarity and support," the statement read. "We emphasize the importance of playing our home matches in Palestine, particularly in Jerusalem, which holds immense national significance for all Palestinians, whether residing in the homeland or the Diaspora. It is the site of our primary stadium, symbolizing our collective identity and heritage."

For Palestinians, sports transcend mere competition, embodying national identity and values while serving as a platform for justice and equality. The statement called upon other countries in their qualifying group to emulate Kuwait's example and permit matches to be hosted on Palestinian territories, asserting their right to engage in sports in Palestine by FIFA regulations.

"The Palestinian Federation pledges to provide a secure and hospitable environment for all participating teams and officials during these qualifiers," the statement assured. "We eagerly anticipate showcasing Palestinian hospitality and the fervor of our fans. Once again, we extend sincere thanks to the Kuwait Football Association and urge all nations to join us in this historic endeavor, supporting our right to host and compete in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Palestinian soil."