UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has criticised the decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from attending their Europa League match against Aston Villa next month, calling it “the wrong decision.”
The move follows security concerns raised by West Midlands Police, who classified the November 6 fixture at Villa Park as a high-risk event. The force cited incidents of violence and hate crimes that occurred when the Israeli side played Ajax in Amsterdam during last season’s competition.
Starmer: “We Will Not Tolerate Antisemitism”
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Starmer said the ban sends the wrong message:
“This is the wrong decision. We will not tolerate antisemitism on our streets.
The role of the police is to ensure all football fans can enjoy the game without fear of violence or intimidation.”
Aston Villa Statement
Aston Villa confirmed the police had advised them of public safety concerns outside the stadium and possible protests on the night.
“We are in continuous dialogue with Maccabi Tel Aviv and local authorities throughout this ongoing process, with the safety of supporters and local residents at the forefront of any decision,” the club said in a statement.
West Midlands Police: “Decision Based on Intelligence”
West Midlands Police defended the decision, saying it followed a thorough risk assessment and that officers have a “strong track record” of managing major football events.
“We are committed to fair and impartial policing,” a spokesperson said.
“Based on current intelligence and previous incidents — including violent clashes and hate crimes at the Ajax vs Maccabi Tel Aviv match — we support the decision to prohibit away supporters from attending.”
The force added it maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward hate crime and that the decision was made to protect both the public and fans.
Reaction from Jewish Community Leaders
The Jewish Leadership Council criticised the ruling as “unfair,” arguing that Aston Villa should bear responsibility for hosting the game safely.
“It is perverse that away fans should be banned from a football match because West Midlands Police can’t guarantee their safety,” the group said.
“Aston Villa should face the consequences of this decision and the match should be played behind closed doors.”
Background and Context
The fixture will be Maccabi Tel Aviv’s first away Europa League match since pro-Palestinian protests took place in Thessaloniki, Greece, when the club played PAOK in September. Around 120 Israeli fans attended that match under strict police supervision.
Last season, Maccabi supporters clashed with locals in Amsterdam, prompting heightened scrutiny over security at future fixtures involving the club.
UEFA had previously considered suspending Israeli teams from European competition amid the Israel-Gaza conflict, though discussions were paused following the recent ceasefire agreement.
