British police have launched a major security operation involving 700 officers in Birmingham ahead of Thursday’s Europa League match between Aston Villa and Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv, amid concerns over potential unrest linked to the Gaza conflict.
With Israeli teams often the focus of pro-Palestinian demonstrations, Villa initially announced that visiting supporters would be barred on police advice.
Maccabi later confirmed it would not take up its ticket allocation, citing safety concerns and what it called a “toxic atmosphere.”
Despite the absence of away fans, pro-Palestinian groups plan to stage protests in the city, while some social media users have called for counter-demonstrations.
West Midlands Police said there would be a substantial presence in Birmingham city centre — home to a large Muslim population — and around Villa Park.
“We know protests by different groups will take place on the day, and we have plans in place that balance the right to protest with our duty to protect all communities,” said Chief Superintendent Tom Joyce. “People not attending the event should expect significant road disruption and are advised to avoid the area where possible.”
The heightened security follows violent scenes last November in Amsterdam, where more than 60 people were arrested during clashes around a match between Maccabi and Ajax.
Police said anti-Israeli gangs attacked Maccabi supporters, several of whom were hospitalised.
Britain has also seen a sharp rise in antisemitic incidents in recent years, including the deaths of two Jewish worshippers in a synagogue attack last month.
The UK government had opposed the initial decision to bar Maccabi fans from attending Thursday’s match, but the club opted to exclude them regardless, citing concerns for their safety.
