Former Hamas hostage Emily Damari has criticized the ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from an upcoming Europa League match in the UK, calling it antisemitic and likening it to ‘No Jews allowed’ signs. British-Israeli activist Damari expressed outrage at the decision, which she says violates the spirit of football as a unifying force. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the ban ‘the wrong decision’ and has ordered an urgent review, while local officials in Birmingham called for a workable solution. The ban follows recent incidents of violence against Israeli fans abroad and tensions over pro-Palestinian protests.
Damari, who was released from Hamas captivity in January, took to social media to voice her frustration, stating that ‘football is a way of bringing people together irrespective of their faith, colour or religion’ and that the decision ‘does the exact opposite.’ Her comments reflect growing tensions between British authorities and Israeli fans, who have been increasingly targeted amid rising violence and protests linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters comes amid heightened security concerns, following a series of incidents of violence against Israeli fans in Europe. Reports indicate that Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters were subjected to violence in Amsterdam before and during a match against Ajax last year, resulting in multiple arrests and convictions. Similar tensions have been observed at recent games in Greece, where Maccabi Tel Aviv faced protests and security measures. These incidents have led to increased scrutiny of fan behavior and the potential for violence, prompting authorities to take precautionary measures.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has consistently advocated for open and safe sporting events, has expressed strong disapproval of the decision, emphasizing that the role of the police is to ensure peaceful attendance and enjoyment of the game. The government is reportedly working to overturn the ban, citing the importance of maintaining a welcoming environment for all fans. Local officials in Birmingham, including Simon Foster and Mayor Richard Parker, have also called for a review of the decision and potential government support to ensure fan safety without compromising security.
The controversy over the ban has sparked wider discussions about the intersection of sports, politics, and international relations. Proponents of the ban argue that the security concerns are legitimate and that the government has a duty to protect local communities. Opponents, including Damari, assert that the decision disproportionately targets Israeli fans and perpetuates antisemitic stereotypes. The situation highlights the complex interplay between national security, cultural identity, and the role of sports in fostering international unity.
Meanwhile, similar restrictions on Israeli sports teams and fans have been reported in other countries. The Indonesian government recently denied entry to Israeli fans attending the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Jakarta, while Israeli athletes have faced exclusion from races in Italy over concerns about pro-Palestinian protests. These measures reflect growing tensions between Israel and its international supporters, as well as the broader geopolitical landscape shaped by the conflict in Gaza and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Despite these challenges, the issue remains a focal point for discussions about freedom of expression, national security, and the role of sports in promoting global understanding. As the conflict in Gaza continues to influence international politics and public opinion, the sports world grapples with the ethical and practical dilemmas of balancing safety with inclusivity. The upcoming match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Aston Villa will be a key test of how these tensions are addressed at the intersection of sport and society.