Tight UK Security Ahead of Match Against Israeli Club
Over 700 police officers were deployed across Birmingham on Thursday in anticipation of demonstrations planned before the Europa League match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Aston Villa. Visiting Israeli supporters were not permitted to attend.
Last month, the UK government promised to reconsider the local ban that prevented Maccabi fans from entering the stadium. The restriction, introduced by local safety authorities and police, faced widespread criticism, especially given Birmingham’s large Muslim community.
Despite the government’s efforts, Maccabi Tel Aviv later announced it would refrain from accepting tickets for its fans, citing security concerns. Aston Villa confirmed that no tickets would be sold for the away section of Villa Park.
For the past two years, Birmingham—Britain’s second-largest city—has regularly hosted pro-Palestinian rallies. On Thursday, heavy police patrols were observed near Villa Park.
Local police reported that demonstrations from various groups were planned, including a pro-Palestinian rally urging Israel’s exclusion from international football and a pro-Israeli Maccabi Solidarity Rally.
Both protests were scheduled to begin at around 6:00 pm (1800 GMT), two hours before kickoff.
Author’s Summary
An intense police presence secured Birmingham as opposing groups rallied before Aston Villa’s match with Maccabi Tel Aviv, highlighting ongoing tensions in UK football and politics.