France is preparing for a major football match between France and Israel on Thursday by deploying thousands of police officers to maintain security. This measure follows recent violence in Amsterdam where fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv were attacked. With tensions high, authorities are taking significant steps to ensure safety at the Stade de France, located in the northern suburbs of Paris.
Extensive Police Deployment for Safety
Paris police chief Laurent Nuñez has announced that about 4,000 police officers will be on patrol for this event. Out of this number, 2,500 officers will be stationed at the Stade de France, while the remaining officers will monitor public transport and various locations within the city. Additionally, approximately 1,600 private security guards will be at the stadium to help manage the crowd and keep the event secure. To further bolster safety, an elite anti-terrorist police unit will be assigned to protect the visiting Israeli football team.
Nuñez emphasized the importance of this operation due to the current geopolitical climate, calling the match a “high-risk” event. He stated, “We will not allow any attempt to disturb public order,” underlining the government’s commitment to keeping the peace.
Concerns Sparked by Violence in Amsterdam
The security measures come in the wake of violence following a recent match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam. During that event, Maccabi fans were reportedly attacked in the streets. According to city authorities, these fans were involved in incidents such as removing a Palestinian flag, attacking a taxi, and shouting anti-Arab slogans. This behavior led to clashes with small groups of individuals who attacked them on foot, as well as on scooters and in cars.
The violence in Amsterdam raised fears of potential unrest spreading to other parts of Europe, especially with the heightened conflict between Israel and its neighbors in the Middle East. Countries like France, Belgium, and the Netherlands have significant Muslim populations with roots in North Africa, living alongside smaller Jewish communities, many of whom identify closely with Israel.
President Macron’s Attendance and European Solidarity
In a show of solidarity with Jewish communities in Europe, French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that he will attend Thursday’s match. He will be joined by Prime Minister Michel Barnier and former presidents François Hollande and Nicolas Sarkozy. This gesture is meant to send a clear message against antisemitism and violence, demonstrating France’s stance on maintaining unity and peace.
To ensure safety, spectators have been warned to expect thorough identity checks before entering the stadium. Nearby bars and restaurants have been instructed to close in the afternoon to prevent any incidents from occurring in the surrounding area.
Political Reactions and Calls for Cancellation
The match has drawn mixed reactions from political figures. France Unbowed (LFI), a far-left political party that supports Palestinian and Lebanese causes, has called for the match to be canceled or, at the very least, for President Macron not to attend. David Guiraud, an LFI deputy, stated, “We do not want our head of state honoring a country that commits genocide.” Israel has rejected such accusations as false and highly misleading.
However, France’s Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau rejected the idea of canceling the match, asserting that France would not bow to those who incite hatred. He said, “France does not give way to those who sow hatred,” reinforcing the government’s commitment to holding the match as planned.
Previous Incidents at the Stade de France
The Stade de France has previously been a site of safety concerns. One notable incident was the 2022 UEFA Champions League final between Liverpool and Real Madrid, which experienced significant security failures. However, successful events such as the Rugby World Cup and the Paris Olympics have since been held at the stadium without major issues, showcasing improved safety protocols.
This upcoming match between France and Israel is part of the UEFA Nations League, where both teams are grouped with Italy and Belgium. France won the first leg in Budapest with a score of 4-1, adding further interest and tension to the match. The match will kick off at 20:45 local time (19:45 GMT), and the stadium, which can hold 80,000 people, is expected to be only partially full. The Israeli government has advised caution, and only around 100 Israeli fans are expected to attend, although more may choose to come on their own.
Tensions were also high in the lead-up to the match after a pro-Israel event was allowed to take place in Paris on Wednesday evening. This event initially included the possible attendance of far-right Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich, though it was later confirmed he would participate via video link.
