Starmer Slams West Midlands Police Ban on Israeli Fans at Aston Villa Europa League Clash
Police Block Israeli Supporters Over Amsterdam Violence
Sir Keir Starmer has hit out at West Midlands Police for banning Israeli fans from attending the Europa League match at Aston Villa on 6 November. The Labour leader demanded fans should be able to watch football “without fear of violence or intimidation.”
The force branded the game “high risk” after violent scenes during the recent Ajax vs Maccabi Tel Aviv clash in Amsterdam. At that game, Maccabi fans tore down Palestinian flags, chanted racist slogans such as “death to Arabs,” and caused damage to property. After the match, pro-Palestinian groups on scooters pursued Israeli fans across the city, leaving five hospitalised and dozens injured.
“This is the wrong decision,” Starmer declared. “We will not tolerate antisemitism on our streets. The role of the police is to ensure all football fans can enjoy the game, without fear of violence or intimidation.”
Jewish Groups Condemn Ban as ‘Perverse’
The Jewish Leadership Council slammed the ban and called it “perverse,” arguing away supporters shouldn’t be punished over fears for their safety. They urged organisers to consider playing the match behind closed doors instead.
The decision has split Birmingham’s diverse community. Local councillor and Villa fan Waseem Zaffar said he will boycott the game, condemning the club’s alleged links to “brutal actions.” Meanwhile, Muslim community leaders have warned tensions are dangerously high in Aston, near Villa Park.
Security Fears and Political Fallout Escalate
West Midlands Police defended their ban, citing “current intelligence” and past violent incidents. The Safety Advisory Group agreed, stating they could not guarantee the safety of fans or manage potential protests.
This controversial move has ignited fiery debates about Israeli teams in European football. Palestinian groups demand UEFA take action against what they describe as “genocidal, racist, and Islamophobic behaviour” from Israeli fans.
With less than three weeks to kick-off, pressure mounts on police and UEFA. But with so much at stake, a reversal of the ban looks highly unlikely.
