World Cup 2026 shows Arab unity is alive and well

World Cup 2026 shows Arab unity is alive and well Submitted by Feras Abu Helal on Tue, 07/14/2026 - 15:03 Despite efforts by individual states to break cross-border bonds, this tournament is a powerful testament to regional solidarity A woman waves an Egyptian flag as Palestinians watch the World Cup match between Egypt and Argentina on a giant screen in Gaza City, on 7 July 2026 (Omar al-Qattaa/AFP) On Most debates about the recent World Cup football match between Argentina and Egypt in the round of 16 have focused on the game itself, amid allegations that Fifa favoured Argentina in refereeing decisions. But across the Arab world, the public reactions have reflected local politics. If social media represents a plausible barometer - albeit an unscientific one - of Arab public opinion, it would point to overwhelming support for the Egyptian team, even among those who oppose the regime’s poor human rights record.