In a report titled “Humanity Must Win,” the London-based rights group urged FIFA and host governments to take “urgent action” to ensure the safety and rights of players, supporters and local populations during the tournament, which begins on June 11.

Amnesty said FIFA’s pledge to deliver a tournament where everyone feels “safe, included and free to exercise their rights” contrasts with conditions in host nations, particularly the United States, which will stage the majority of the 104 matches.

The organization described the U.S. as facing a “human rights emergency” under Donald Trump, citing mass deportations, arbitrary arrests and what it characterized as “paramilitary-style” operations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). It noted that ICE officials have indicated the agency will play a central role in World Cup security arrangements.

The report also referenced public backlash following the killing of two U.S. citizens during protests against ICE raids in Minneapolis earlier this year.Gaps in fan protection measuresAmnesty said host city plans published so far do not clearly address how fans or residents would be shielded from immigration enforcement during the tournament.

It added that supporters from some participating nations, including Ivory Coast, Haiti, Iran and Senegal, could face travel restrictions to the United States.LGBTQ+ fan groups in Europe have also indicated reluctance to attend matches in the U.S., citing concerns over protections for transgender individuals.

FIFA has said the expanded 48-team tournament the largest in World Cup history will proceed as scheduled, with all qualified teams expected to participate. The governing body has not publicly responded to Amnesty’s latest report.

The organization expects to generate around $11 billion in revenue from the 2026 World Cup cycle, drawing renewed scrutiny from rights groups over its responsibilities toward stakeholders.

Steve Cockburn, Amnesty’s head of economic and social justice, said that while FIFA stands to benefit financially, “fans, communities, players, journalists and workers cannot be made to pay the price.

”The tournament is set to open in Mexico City and conclude on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

The event, held at the iconic Tokyo Racecourse, marked not only a thrilling chapter in horse racing but also a meaningful symbol of the growing friendship between Saudi Arabia and Japan.

Amid light drizzle and overcast skies, excitement filled the air as jockey Rusei Sakai led Ecolo Alba to a stunning win in the 1,600-meter race for two-year-olds.

Trained by Yasuhito Tamura, the colt showcased incredible stamina and precision, crossing the finish line 1.5 lengths ahead of Galilea, while the favorite, Zoro Astro, finished close behind in third.

Speaking after the race, Sakai expressed immense pride in the victory, calling it “a strong race and a special win.” He admitted feeling anxious in the early stages but credited Ecolo Alba’s steady rhythm and determination for the remarkable comeback.

The crowd responded with thunderous applause as the duo claimed a well-deserved triumph, capturing the spirit of excellence that defines the Saudi Arabia Royal Cup.

The event was graced by the presence of Abdullah Alaseeri, Secretary General of the Saudi Equestrian Authority, alongside Mohamed Al Khatham, Deputy Secretary General, and Anas Alnowaiser, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia.

Their attendance underscored the significance of the event as more than just a sporting competition — it was a reflection of the enduring partnership between Saudi Arabia and Japan.

In his remarks, Alaseeri emphasized the symbolic importance of the race, which was first initiated by the late King Abdullah to strengthen international cultural and sporting ties.

“This is a momentous occasion and a reflection of our strong diplomatic relationship with Japan,” he said. “We look forward to deepening our collaboration in many fields. The Saudi Arabia Royal Cup is a bridge of friendship between our two nations, celebrating both our traditions and our shared vision for the future.”

As Alaseeri proudly handed the gleaming trophy to the winning team, cheers erupted across the racecourse. The audience — a mix of diplomats, officials, and fans — applauded not only the thrilling performance but also the spirit of unity that the event represented. The ceremony began with the national anthems of both Japan and Saudi Arabia, symbolizing mutual respect and the growing cooperation between the two countries.

Hidenori Takagi, Manager of the Tokyo Racecourse, welcomed the guests and highlighted the evolving collaboration between the Japan Racing Association, the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia, and both nations’ horse racing industries. He described the Royal Cup as “a shining example of how sports can bring cultures closer together.”

Adding to the atmosphere of celebration, Hideki Hagiwara, Counselor at Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), noted that horse racing in Japan continues to flourish under MAFF’s regulation.

He also referenced a proud moment earlier this year when a Japanese horse claimed victory at the Saudi Cup, the world’s richest horse race held in Riyadh. To honor that achievement, MAFF and the Saudi Embassy collaborated on a food promotion event at the racecourse, offering guests the chance to enjoy authentic halal cuisine and meet producers showcasing their goods.

Ecolo Alba’s story adds another layer to this success. Purchased for ¥77 million at the Chiba auction, the colt made an impressive debut in July, winning its first race by two and a half lengths. Saturday’s victory now cements its reputation as one of Japan’s most promising young racehorses.

Beyond the racetrack, the Saudi Arabia Royal Cup continues to stand as a symbol of shared respect, sports diplomacy, and cultural exchange. What began as an initiative to strengthen bilateral ties has grown into a prestigious event that brings together people from diverse backgrounds under a single passion — the love of equestrian sport.

As Ecolo Alba’s triumph echoes through Tokyo, it reflects a deeper narrative — one of partnership, progress, and promise between Saudi Arabia and Japan.

With both nations committed to fostering stronger connections through sports, innovation, and culture, the Royal Cup serves as a shining reminder that when tradition meets teamwork, the result is nothing short of extraordinary.

The comeback marks a significant moment not only for basketball fans across the nation but also for cultural and commercial ties between the NBA and China. Two thrilling pre-season games will be held in the vibrant city of Macau, signaling a new era of sports diplomacy and fan engagement.

The NBA’s return is highlighted by a multi-year partnership with China’s technology giant Alibaba Group, focusing on innovation through artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and enhanced digital fan experiences.

This partnership symbolizes a renewed spirit of cooperation and shared enthusiasm for basketball, technology, and global connectivity.

The games are scheduled for Friday and Sunday at the iconic Venetian Macau, organized in collaboration with Sands China Ltd, a subsidiary of Las Vegas Sands.

This marks the first-ever NBA event in Macau, the world’s largest gaming and entertainment hub. The initiative aims to strengthen the league’s connection with millions of Chinese basketball enthusiasts while supporting Macau’s ongoing transformation into a diversified tourism and entertainment destination.

Brooklyn Nets player Michael Porter Jr. expressed his excitement, saying, “The China fans are some of our biggest supporters. Coming out here and being able to play in front of them is a blessing for us and for them.

” His words reflect the NBA’s appreciation for its vast Chinese fanbase, which has remained passionate and loyal throughout the league’s absence.

In addition to the games, the NBA has launched a five-day interactive experience blending music, fashion, and technology. The event celebrates basketball culture and its growing influence on lifestyle and innovation.

Global icon Shaquille O’Neal is among the celebrities attending, adding to the festival’s star power.

The games feature the Brooklyn Nets, owned by Alibaba chairman Joseph Tsai, and the Phoenix Suns, with both matchups already sold out. This overwhelming response demonstrates the lasting appeal of the NBA in China and the deep enthusiasm among local fans for live sports entertainment.

The partnership between Alibaba and the NBA extends beyond the court. Alibaba Cloud will serve as the official AI and cloud computing partner of NBA China, helping to elevate the digital fan experience through personalized content, advanced analytics, and interactive features on the NBA app.

This collaboration aligns with China’s ongoing digital transformation and the league’s ambition to create a more immersive and inclusive global basketball community.

The NBA’s return also coincides with Macau’s efforts to diversify its economy. The city’s casino operators, including Sands, Wynn Macau, Galaxy Entertainment, and Melco Resorts, have pledged over $13.5 billion in non-gaming investments over the next decade.

These initiatives include entertainment, healthcare, tourism, and cultural projects aimed at positioning Macau as a premier international leisure and business destination.

Recently, Melco Resorts announced the opening of a hospital within its Studio City resort to support Macau’s development as a hub for medical tourism. Such projects underscore the government’s vision to expand beyond traditional gaming and promote sustainable growth.

The NBA’s presence perfectly complements this shift, offering family-friendly entertainment that attracts both local residents and international visitors.

The NBA’s comeback in Macau represents more than just a sports event—it’s a celebration of cultural exchange, innovation, and global unity through basketball. The collaboration between American and Chinese organizations highlights the power of sports to bridge differences and create shared experiences across borders.

As the two games unfold this weekend, fans are set to witness not only high-energy basketball but also a reimagined NBA experience infused with Chinese culture, modern technology, and global connectivity.

The return of the NBA to China, especially through Macau’s dazzling stage, reflects optimism, mutual respect, and the universal love for the game.

The move also opens the door for more NBA initiatives across Asia, encouraging youth development programs, digital fan engagement, and community-building projects. With millions of basketball fans in China, the league’s renewed presence reinforces its commitment to nurturing talent, inspiring future athletes, and deepening international ties through sportsmanship and innovation.

Ultimately, the NBA’s Macau return is a triumph for global sports diplomacy — merging athletic excellence, entertainment, and technology to build bridges and shape the future of basketball in one of the world’s most dynamic regions.

Qatar is conducting a multi-pronged, global influence campaign to expand its regional and international clout.

Recently, it was reported that Israeli security officials are investigating the possibility that Qatari elements are behind a wave of online posts in recent weeks designed to cast doubt on the stability of the peace agreement between Israel and Egypt. These posts, widely circulated in Israeli media, focused on Egypt’s military buildup and increased troop deployment in Sinai — a move that could be seen as violating the peace treaty.

However, a civil society group called “Fake Reporter,” which tracks malicious online activity, found a sharp rise in content on social media portraying Egypt as an increasing threat to Israel. Some of the videos and images used to support these claims were actually from an Egyptian military drill held in 2018.

While it’s true that Egypt has been enhancing its military capabilities, it seems there’s a deliberate attempt to frame this as a threat to Israel. The suspicion is that this disinformation campaign may be aimed at weakening Egypt’s role as a mediator, particularly with the U.S., in Middle Eastern affairs — and especially in Gaza-related matters.

If Qatar is indeed behind this disinformation, it would be yet another link in its vast influence network — one that’s drawn increasing attention lately, both due to the potential collapse of the Assad regime in Syria and Qatar’s involvement in mediation efforts around hostage negotiations. In the Israeli context, reports have surfaced about Qatar hiring Israeli PR experts — including advisors to Netanyahu — to improve its image in global public opinion and in the Jewish world.

This isn’t a new tactic for the small Gulf emirate. While research on influence campaigns over the past decade has focused mostly on Russia, China, and Iran, Qatar has largely flown under the radar — unjustly so. A series of investigations by Reuters since 2019 exposed “Project Raven,” a secret UAE-led operation that hired former NSA agents to spy on targets in Turkey, France, Yemen, Iran, Qatar, and Israel.

Leaked information from that project revealed the extent of Qatar’s global influence operations — supporting both terrorist groups and friendly regimes in the West, while also working to destabilize governments across the Arab world.

For example, Qatar played a role in toppling Gaddafi’s regime in Libya and was the first to recognize the rebel government. It also supported Tunisia’s post-revolution regime after the fall of Ben Ali, and has actively backed Syrian rebels with weapons and funding. Traditionally, Qatar has pursued a proactive agenda in the Arab world and has recently intensified efforts to position itself as a leader of the Sunni world. To that end, it engages in various influence channels:

Influence Among Decision Makers

Qatar commonly uses financial incentives to sway influencers and policymakers. Beyond the bribery scandals uncovered in Project Raven, French authorities recently indicted Nasser Al-Khelaifi — a senior official in Qatar’s Investment Authority and president of Paris Saint-Germain football club — for allegedly using bribes to manipulate business decisions.

Similarly, U.S. Senator Bob Menendez was accused of accepting bribes from both Qatar and Egypt to advance their interests. Qatar also funds trips for politicians and journalists to Doha — a form of soft power. In 2018, federal investigations began in the U.S. into whether lobbyists and former government officials working for Qatar had violated lobbying laws. That year, 250 people close to President Trump were flown to Doha at Qatar’s expense. Likewise, Rep. Ilhan Omar was flown to Qatar during the 2022 World Cup, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer admitted to a similar Qatar-sponsored trip when he was still a member of Parliament.

Just last week, the European Network of Aviation Associations (ENAA) warned the EU’s transport department about a possible aviation deal with Qatar, raising corruption concerns.

Financial Influence

Qatar’s wealth oils the wheels of influence in the U.S. Congress — with reports in 2018 showing that 59 members received donations from Qatar. Think tanks in Washington also benefit, making Qatar a major funder of those who whisper in the ears of decision-makers. In 2022, it was revealed that Gen. John Allen, then-president of the Brookings Institution, was under investigation for secretly lobbying for Qatar after retiring from the military — earning over $1 million in fees. He worked alongside Richard Olson, former U.S. ambassador to Pakistan and the UAE, who admitted to participating in the lobbying campaign.

“Qatargate” Scandal in Europe

The Qatargate scandal in the European Parliament revealed that, starting in 2019, Qatar paid Italian MEP Antonio Panzeri and Greek EU Vice President Eva Kaili in exchange for favorable votes. This led to greater scrutiny in Europe over parliamentarians’ trips to Qatar and prompted ethics committees to enhance oversight and limit Qatari influence.

Western Assets and Public Opinion

Qatar also secures influence through investments. It holds major stakes in European corporations like Porsche. Its massive investment in building the U.S. air base at Al-Udeid made it the largest American military base in the Middle East. Qatar also targets American public opinion — in spring 2020, it donated millions in COVID-19 aid to families in Los Angeles, Charleston (South Carolina), and other U.S. cities.

Influence Through Sports

Qatar places immense importance on sports as a tool for influence. Hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup was the result of a massive lobbying effort — including hiring Israeli PR experts. The campaign continues, with recent reports of Qatari investors aiming to buy the English football club Tottenham and launching their bid to host the 2027 Basketball World Cup. During the 2024 Paris Olympics, Qatari leaders, including the Emir, were prominent guests at the opening ceremony, and Al-Khelaifi even carried the Olympic torch.

Diplomatic Influence

Qatar invests heavily in its image as a regional mediator. Both the Biden and Trump administrations praised its efforts in negotiating the release of American hostages from the Taliban. Doha values this role so highly that its diplomats frequently emphasize Qatar’s neutrality. For instance, the Qatari ambassador to the U.S. wrote op-eds in The Wall Street Journal and Newsweek framing Qatar as an honest broker. Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesperson has echoed this narrative in numerous interviews, including with Israeli outlets like Haaretz and Channel 12. Journalists from The Jerusalem Post and Kan 11 have even been invited to Doha.

Influence in Education

A 2022 study by the U.S. National Association of Scholars revealed that between 2001 and 2021, Qatar donated $4.7 billion to American universities — including Cornell, Georgetown, and Carnegie Mellon — in return for opening Doha branches. Sometimes, this came with conditions, like removing certain course content or cooperating with Qatari media like Al Jazeera. Texas A&M alone received $404 million between 2015 and 2023. (The university has announced plans to shut its Doha campus by 2027 — a move publicly criticized by the U.S. ambassador to Qatar.)

Qatar has become the largest foreign donor to U.S. universities, often without proper disclosure, and a 2020 ISGAP study found a correlation between Qatari funding and pro-Palestinian activism on American campuses.

Supporting Terror-Linked Groups Under a Humanitarian Disguise

Qatar often masks its support for terror-linked entities as humanitarian aid. To retain influence in Gaza, Qatar insisted on delivering aid during the early 2025 ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, including fuel and bulldozers. It pledged $100 million to UNRWA, with $4.5 million earmarked for operations in the West Bank. Qatar also funneled money to Hezbollah through “charities” that provide food, medicine, and education — and used similar “humanitarian” ventures to build ties with the Houthis in Yemen and the Taliban in Afghanistan.

Media Influence

Qatar’s media arm, Al Jazeera, plays a major role in shaping public opinion. It’s the most popular English-language news network in the world after CNN and BBC — and has been accused of acting as a mouthpiece for Hamas and other Islamist groups. Since its founding in 1996, Al Jazeera has provided a platform for Muslim Brotherhood leaders and broadcast divisive content about the Arab world.

Its various branches, including AJ+ in the U.S., continue to influence global narratives. In Gaza, several Al Jazeera journalists were recently found to be affiliated with Hamas and Islamic Jihad, and the channel actively promoted staged events involving Israeli hostages.

Conclusion

Qatar is conducting a multi-pronged, global influence campaign to expand its regional and international clout. Through its vast network of soft power — in diplomacy, media, education, finance, and humanitarian aid — Qatar has become a key player in global affairs. Israel’s current dependence on Qatari mediation regarding hostages forces it to tolerate, and even flatter, one of Hamas’s primary funders — without whom the October 7th attack may not have happened. Qatar is now also helping Hamas recover.

This case illustrates the sophistication of Qatar’s influence strategy — and the urgent need to monitor and defend against it.

Translated in English from Jerusalem Institute of Strategic Studies.