The United States is reportedly considering imposing travel restrictions on European officials attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup in response to concerns over rising anti-Semitism in Europe. According to Euractiv, the proposal was raised by Yehuda Kaploun, an ultra-Orthodox rabbi serving as a special envoy for combating anti-Semitism under President Donald Trump.
Kaploun made the remarks during a Brussels event organized by the European Jewish Association, stating that the administration is “holding countries accountable for ministers who are saying things, and they are not being allowed into the country.” An EU official cited by the outlet claimed Kaploun privately linked the anti-Semitism allegations to access for the World Cup. When asked for clarification, a US official said the administration “can take any step that the secretary of state and the president deem necessary,” while declining to discuss specifics.
The potential move comes amid heightened diplomatic tensions between Israel and several European governments. Spain has condemned recent Israeli military actions as illegal and refused to allow US use of its airbases. France blocked flights carrying munitions for Israel from crossing its airspace. Belgium reportedly intercepted two military shipments from Britain passing through Liege Airport en route to Tel Aviv. In the Netherlands, lawmakers voted to suspend and partially scrap an EU-Israel association agreement, a move that gained momentum after Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s recent electoral defeat.
Accusations of anti-Semitism have frequently been used by Israeli officials to challenge critics of its policies. A recent report from Israel’s Ministry of Diaspora Affairs identified ten leading “anti-Semitic influencers” of 2025, including six Americans such as white nationalist Nick Fuentes and former Trump ally Tucker Carlson. Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg, who has voiced support for the Palestinian cause, also appeared on the list.
The 2026 World Cup, to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, faces additional challenges beyond diplomatic disputes. US hotels have begun lowering summer prices amid fears of weak demand, with concerns over inflation, anti-American sentiment, and high ticket costs potentially discouraging international visitors. FIFA has also faced criticism after canceling thousands of hotel reservations intended for teams and technical staff, exceeding typical overbooking practices for large events. Fans have expressed frustration over ticketing practices, particularly regarding a newly introduced premium tier above Category 1 that has led to confusion over seating arrangements.
The tournament has been directly affected by the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, with Tehran stating it has no intention of sending a team to compete on what it considers enemy territory. Iranian Football Federation president Mehdi Taj has suggested relocating matches involving Iran to Mexico, though FIFA chief Gianni Infantino has indicated the schedule will remain unchanged.
