Exclusive: Violent Maccabi Fans Were Organised Fighters Connected to IDF, UK Police Found
New intelligence revealed to Middle East Eye (MEE) led to the ban on Israeli Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from the Aston Villa game this week. Dutch police informed their British counterparts that over 200 Maccabi Tel Aviv football supporters who caused chaos in Amsterdam in November 2024 were "linked to the Israel Defense Forces [IDF]". They also noted that hundreds more were "experienced fighters", "highly organised", and "intent on causing serious violence".
Background on the Fan Ban
The recent ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from the 6 November match at Aston Villa in Birmingham sparked political controversy and was condemned as antisemitic by the British government last month. However, the West Midlands Police decision to impose the ban was grounded in intelligence received from Dutch police about the behavior of Maccabi fans during the Amsterdam match in November 2024.
Police Assessment Details
The Guardian reported on 21 October that the police assessment "concluded the biggest risk of violence came from extremist fans of the Israeli club."
MEE now reveals further specifics from the police assessment, which were not previously public and raise questions about statements from government officials.
Outcome of the Ban Enforcement
- The police and Birmingham's safety advisory group confirmed the ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans attending the match.
- This confirmation came despite criticism from the government.
- Maccabi Tel Aviv ultimately chose not to sell tickets to its fans for the fixture.
Author's summary: Intelligence linking Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters to the IDF and their organized, violent conduct led UK police to enforce a fan ban, provoking political debate and government criticism.