Tight UK Security Ahead of Match Against Israeli Club
More than 700 police officers were deployed across Birmingham, UK, on Thursday to manage protests planned before the football match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Aston Villa. Visiting Israeli fans were barred from attending the match.
Last month, the UK government promised to overturn the ban on Maccabi fans attending the Europa League game held in Birmingham, a city with a large Muslim community, after widespread criticism of the local safety authorities' decision. However, the Israeli club later announced it would refuse any tickets for its supporters due to safety concerns.
Aston Villa stated they would not sell tickets for the away section of Villa Park stadium, leaving it empty for the match.
Protests and Demonstrations
Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city, has witnessed frequent pro-Palestinian rallies over the past two years. On match day, a significant police presence was noted near Villa’s stadium.
- Protests by various groups were scheduled close to Villa Park, including a pro-Palestinian demonstration calling for Israel’s exclusion from international football.
- A pro-Israeli group organized a Maccabi Solidarity Rally.
Both events were planned to begin at around 6:00 pm (1800 GMT), two hours before the kickoff.
"Protests by different groups were scheduled Thursday near Villa Park, including a pro-Palestinian demonstration demanding Israel be excluded from international football."
"A pro-Israeli group has also organised a Maccabi Solidarity Rally, with both protests set to kick off around 6:00 pm (1800 GMT), two hours before the match is due to begin."
Author's summary: Birmingham prepared for heightened security amid protests and a fan ban for the Maccabi Tel Aviv versus Aston Villa football match, reflecting ongoing regional tensions.
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