PREVIEW

Maccabi Tel Aviv Fans Barred from Aston Villa Match as Starmer Condemns ‘Wrong’ Decision. Fans of Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv will be barred from attending their Europa League match against Aston Villa in Birmingham on November 6 due to “physical and safety factors.” The decision followed advice from West Midlands Police (WMP), which raised concerns over public safety and the potential for protests outside Villa Park. Aston Villa confirmed the move, stating that safety for both supporters and local residents was the top priority after consultations with Birmingham City Council and the city’s Safety Advisory Group (SAG). UEFA, which organises the competition, is expected to follow the recommendation of local authorities. The SAG — made up of emergency services, the club, and other officials — convened an emergency meeting on Thursday to discuss the issue. The ban comes amid wider calls for Israel’s exclusion from UEFA competitions over its military actions in Gaza, though the U.S. State Department has said it would oppose such a move. Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the decision, calling it “wrong” and saying police should ensure all football fans can “enjoy the game without fear of violence or intimidation.” “We will not tolerate antisemitism on our streets,” Starmer wrote on X, urging authorities to uphold fairness and safety for all supporters.
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