Increased security and police presence were seen at the UEFA Nations League game between Israel and France at Stade de France. The match was preceded by attacks on Israeli supporters in Amsterdam during a different game. About 4,000 French security personnel were deployed to ensure safety inside and outside the stadium, as well as on public transit. The Israeli government had warned citizens about attending such events due to the recent attacks in Amsterdam.
During the game, which had an attendance of 16,611, a small group of Israeli fans, around 100, were present at the stadium. When the Israeli national anthem played, some fans booed and whistled. Additionally, there were scuffles and altercations in the stands, with some fans getting involved in physical fights. The tension was evident before the match began, as anti-Israeli protesters waved Palestinian flags in the Saint-Denis district of Paris.
Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, expressed his concerns about the violence in Amsterdam, calling it a “pogrom against Jews and Israelis.” He urged the Dutch government to take immediate action against the perpetrators. The Israeli Embassy in the U.S. also shared a video showing the violence and condemned the attacks on innocent Israelis.
In response to the escalating antisemitism, Rep. Ritchie Torres of New York criticized the demonization of Israel and the outbreak of violence. He referred to the situation as a 21st-century pogrom and emphasized the need for immediate action to protect Jewish people in danger. This incident comes after a previous terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel, further intensifying the ongoing conflict.
The clashes and tensions during the soccer match highlight the deep-rooted animosity and political complexities surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict. The incidents serve as a reminder of the challenges in fostering peace and understanding in the region. As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy to address the underlying issues and prevent further violence and unrest.