France Mounts Security Operation for Israel Match After Amsterdam Violence
In a heightened security operation, France has deployed thousands of police officers to secure Thursday’s France-Israel football match at the Stade de France. This follows violent incidents in Amsterdam, where fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv were attacked after a recent game. With tensions running high, Paris police chief Laurent Nuñez announced that 4,000 officers, 1,600 private security guards, and an elite anti-terrorist unit would be in place to ensure the safety of fans and players alike.
Heightened Security Following Amsterdam Incidents
The France-Israel UEFA Nations League match is drawing particular scrutiny due to recent violence in Amsterdam, where Maccabi Tel Aviv fans were attacked in the streets. The incident, which involved both vandalism by Maccabi fans and assaults by small groups of rioters, has reignited concerns about antisemitism and heightened awareness of security risks.
At the Stade de France, only a quarter of the stadium’s 80,000 capacity will be filled. French authorities are prepared for potential clashes, as the game comes amid a strained geopolitical climate, with increasing concerns about Middle East conflicts impacting European communities.
Macron and French Officials Show Support Amid Tensions
President Emmanuel Macron will attend the match to express solidarity with European Jewish communities, joined by Prime Minister Michel Barnier, and former presidents François Hollande and Nicolas Sarkozy. Macron’s attendance underscores France’s commitment to combating antisemitism, especially in light of criticism from far-left politicians who oppose Israel’s policies.
Far-left political groups like France Unbowed (LFI) have voiced opposition to Macron’s presence at the match, with LFI Deputy David Guiraud calling for its cancellation. However, Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau firmly stated that the match would proceed as planned, emphasizing that France “does not give way to those who sow hatred.”
Tensions in France-Israel Relations
The match comes amid strained diplomatic relations between France and Israel. Macron’s recent comments urging Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to consider a UN ceasefire resolution led to friction, with Netanyahu perceiving the remarks as insensitive to Israel’s history. France was further angered when two French officials were briefly detained by Israeli authorities in East Jerusalem.
Macron has been seen as taking a fluctuating stance on Middle Eastern conflicts, with his position varying between support for Israel and solidarity with Arab neighbors. This “zigzag” approach has led to criticism both domestically and internationally, particularly as France balances its diverse Jewish and Muslim communities.
Public Safety Measures and Fan Protocols
Fans attending Thursday’s match will undergo strict identity checks, and nearby bars and restaurants have been ordered to close early to maintain public order. The Stade de France, which experienced a breakdown in order during the 2022 UEFA Champions League final, has since hosted successful events such as the Rugby World Cup and Paris Olympics, demonstrating improvements in security protocols.
In anticipation of heightened political tensions, thousands of protesters, including pro-Palestinian and anti-racist groups, have already staged demonstrations in Paris. Clashes erupted in the lead-up to a pro-Israel event attended virtually by far-right Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich, prompting police to use tear gas to disperse crowds.
As the France-Israel match unfolds under tight security, the event reflects broader regional tensions while testing France’s capacity to manage both public safety and diplomatic challenges.
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Learn more about France’s security measures for the match
