Exclusive: Violent Maccabi Fans Were Organised Fighters Linked to IDF, UK Police Found
Middle East Eye revealed new intelligence that led to the ban on Israeli football club Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from attending the Aston Villa match in Birmingham on 6 November. Dutch authorities informed UK police that more than 200 Maccabi supporters who caused chaos in Amsterdam in November 2024 were connected to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), while many others were described as trained fighters and highly organised.
The ban provoked political controversy in the UK and was condemned by government officials as antisemitic. However, the West Midlands Police decision was based on intelligence shared by Dutch police detailing violent incidents involving Maccabi fans the previous year.
“Linked to the Israel Defense Forces [IDF]”
“Experienced fighters, highly organised, and intent on causing serious violence.”
The Guardian reported on 21 October that police believed the greatest risk of violence came from extremist supporters of the Israeli club. Despite backlash from government figures, both local police and Birmingham’s safety advisory group upheld the restriction. Ultimately, Maccabi Tel Aviv opted not to sell tickets to its supporters for the match.
Background and Implications
The intelligence raises questions about the balance between public safety and the risk of political bias in handling international sports events. It also highlights growing tension between law enforcement and government responses to alleged antisemitism in football security measures.
Author’s summary: The UK police ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans followed intelligence from Dutch officers linking some supporters to the IDF and organised violence during prior matches.