Key facts
- Israeli ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir taunted Britain following Argentina's World Cup semi-final victory.
- The taunts referenced the Falklands War and UK sanctions.
- Argentina players displayed a banner supporting their claim to the Falkland Islands after beating England.
- The UK government urged FIFA to investigate the banner display.
- Tens of thousands of fans celebrated Argentina's victory in Buenos Aires.
Israeli ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir reportedly taunted Britain following Argentina's World Cup semi-final victory over England, referencing the Falklands War and UK sanctions. The comments emerged as Argentina players celebrated their win by displaying a banner supporting their claim to the Falkland Islands, which Argentina calls the Malvinas.
The UK government has urged FIFA to investigate the banner display, with Business Secretary Peter Kyle calling for an inquiry and MPs suggesting bans for the players. Keir Starmer also supported a FIFA investigation, reiterating the UK's sovereignty over the islands.
Argentina secured their place in the World Cup final against Spain after defeating England 2-1 with late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez. The victory sparked massive celebrations in Buenos Aires, with tens of thousands of fans flooding the streets. For many Argentines, the win held significance beyond football, representing a triumph over a historical adversary and a connection to the unresolved conflict over the Falkland Islands, which resulted in a war in 1982 where 649 Argentines died.
The controversy surrounding the banner comes amid broader discussions about political displays in sports and FIFA's rules against such actions. The victory also follows accusations on social media, which lack evidence, that FIFA and referees have conspired to favor Argentina and Lionel Messi.