A significant security operation is being planned for the upcoming Europa League match between Premier League side Aston Villa and Israel’s Maccabi Tel Aviv. Over 700 British police officers are set to be deployed to ensure the safety of attendees and maintain public order when the two teams meet on November 6 at Villa Park.
The heightened security measures come amidst considerable controversy and concerns surrounding the fixture. Local authorities have already issued warnings to residents living around Villa Park about potential disruptions. A key aspect of the precautionary measures is a comprehensive ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters attending the match.
This decision was made after British police prohibited Maccabi fans from watching the game, a stance echoed by Aston Villa, which also opted to ban visiting supporters. This move was made at the specific request of the Birmingham City Security Council. Furthermore, Maccabi Tel Aviv itself has decided against accepting or distributing tickets for its fans for this particular fixture.
The primary reason behind the British police’s ban on Israeli fans at the Aston Villa match stems from serious security concerns regarding potential demonstrations by pro-Palestinian protesters. Authorities are wary of the risk of public disorder, citing past incidents in Italy and Spain where pro-Palestinian demonstrations escalated, in some cases leading to violence and the destruction of public property.
Birmingham Police Chief Tom Joyce has publicly stressed the gravity of the situation, stating that any individuals who violate laws will face punishment according to English legislation. He also confirmed that instigators of hatred would be arrested.
The decision to ban fans has not been without its critics. British Prime Minister Kier Starmer has voiced criticism of the Security Advisory Group (SAG) decision and the British police’s actions regarding the ban on Israeli fans. Senior Israeli officials have also expressed strong disapproval, deeming the situation a ‘disgrace’ that should not occur in England.
Conversely, Palestinian supporters in Britain have called for the match to be suspended or even cancelled entirely. These groups have also issued warnings that they intend to demonstrate at the venue on the day of the match, further complicating the security landscape for the highly anticipated European fixture.
