UK police face mounting pressure to lift the Maccabi Fan Ban after Israeli supporters were barred from attending a Europa League game at Aston Villa.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the police recommendation to block Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from the November 6 match was the wrong decision. He stated that it is the duty of police to ensure all football fans can enjoy matches safely without fear or intimidation. Government officials said efforts are underway to reverse the ruling immediately.
The decision has been widely criticised by politicians sports bodies and Jewish groups. Simon Foster the Birmingham official responsible for oversight of the police called for an urgent review. Birmingham’s mayor Richard Parker also urged a solution that could include government funding for security measures.
Aston Villa confirmed that West Midlands Police had raised public safety concerns due to potential protests. Police said they considered the event high risk after previous violent incidents during Maccabi matches abroad. Although there is no record of hostility between Aston Villa and Maccabi fans the decision followed unrest in other European cities linked to tensions over the war in Gaza.
UEFA also intervened, saying that Maccabi fans should be allowed to attend the game under safe conditions. Maccabi Tel Aviv’s chief executive expressed disappointment, saying the move sends a troubling message. Supporters including former Hamas captive Emily Damari criticised the ban as divisive and urged officials to uphold the spirit of sport and unity.
