The Social Democrats also voiced disapproval, with spokesperson Sinéad Gibney characterizing the venue shift as an evasion of responsibility.
"Moving the fixture is an attempt to brush this under the rug - and will deny the Irish people an opportunity to engage in peaceful protest," Gibney said, adding that it does not change the fact that the game should not be played.
She urged state authorities to intervene.
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Government Stance
Taoiseach Micheál Martin focused on regulatory penalties Ireland would face from UEFA if they refused to play.
"That has been my main concern, that the Irish team does not unduly suffer as a result of anything that may happen," he said, acknowledging public distress over humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
Tánaiste Simon Harris clarified that neither players nor the government have legal power to decide on international fixtures.
"This nothing to do with the players, and there should be no pressure applied to the players who play with distinction wearing our national jersey," Harris said, noting that legislative votes would not alter the regulatory framework.
Harris urged the FAI to resolve the matter swiftly.
"I really encourage the FAI to come to that decision this week to bring clarity to the matter.
This shouldn’t drag on and on," he said.
He also pushed back against assertions that moving the match would harm diplomatic standing, emphasizing the need to differentiate between government actions and citizens.
The Stop the Game campaign group vowed to sustain demonstrations regardless of the venue change, comparing the scenario to historical sporting boycotts against apartheid South Africa.
"Our message for the FAI and government will continue to grow louder: Not here, not anywhere. No game," the group stated.
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The FAI previously noted that a refusal to play would result in a forfeit and potential tournament disqualification under UEFA guidelines.
