Paris Implements Major Security Measures for France-Israel Football Match

In response to heightened tensions, Paris deploys extensive security operations to ensure safety at the France-Israel football match, prioritizing fan and public protection. 

Thousands of police officers will be stationed for a “high-risk” football match between France and Israel in Paris on Thursday, due to security concerns following an attack on Israeli fans in Amsterdam.

Last week, following a Europa League match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax, at least ten individuals were injured by rioters. Officials in Amsterdam, Israel, and across Europe have condemned the violent acts as anti-Semitic. On the other hand, various media outlets—such as those from Iran—have accused Israeli football hooligans of inciting violence by chanting anti-Arab slurs and defacing Palestinian flags during their march through the city on Wednesday night.

The UEFA Nations League game between France and Israel is scheduled for Thursday at the Stade de France.

The Elysee Palace has announced that French President Emmanuel Macron, who is anticipated to be present at the event, aims to “convey a message of unity and support” following the “unacceptable” acts of anti-Semitism in Amsterdam.

Approximately 2,500 officers will be positioned in and around the venue, while an additional 1,500 will focus on safeguarding public transportation. Furthermore, there will be a deployment of 1,600 security personnel inside the stadium. Members from France’s elite police unit (Raid) are also tasked with securing the Israeli team.

“There are tensions that make this match a high-risk event for us,” Paris police chief Laurent Nunez said on BFM TV on Sunday, referring to the international context stemming from the Israel-Gaza war.

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“We will not tolerate any disruptions or disturbances to public order,” he stated, noting that a counter-terrorist security perimeter will be established around the stadium.

Last week, a group of pro-Palestinian activists gathered in front of the French Football Federation (FFF) headquarters in Paris to protest an upcoming match. They held banners displaying messages such as “No to France-Israel Match at Stade de France” and “Stop Genocide, Silence Kills.” In response, the Jewish youth movement Betar announced plans for a counter-rally against antisemitism.

In the meantime, Israeli officials, who had previously referred to clashes in Amsterdam as “pogroms,” have advised their supporters not to attend the match. According to FFF, only 25% of the available tickets have been sold thus far.

There has been a significant increase in anti-Semitic incidents following the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza last October, when Hamas launched an attack on Israel that resulted in around 1,100 fatalities. In response to this assault, Israel’s bombing and ground operations targeting Hamas in Gaza have led to tens of thousands of civilian casualties. These actions have ignited pro-Palestinian and anti-war protests worldwide.