Tel Aviv Football Derby Cancelled Due to Violent Riots Leading to Nine Arrests

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Tel Aviv Football Derby Cancelled Due to Violent Riots Leading to Nine Arrests

The Tel Aviv football derby between Hapoel and Maccabi has been abruptly canceled due to violent riots that erupted at Bloomfield Stadium. This decision follows significant disturbances that injured several people, including police officers.

Incident Overview

On Sunday night, Israeli police reported nine arrests amid riots at the stadium during the designated home game for Hapoel. Authorities stated that these events led to injuries for 13 civilians and three officers, primarily caused by pyrotechnic devices.

Police Statement

According to the police, the decision to cancel the match was made in response to the dangerous situation that unfolded. They described the incidents as serious, emphasizing that public safety was at risk.

Clubs’ Reactions

Hapoel Tel Aviv Football Club criticized police preparedness, claiming that officers seemed to be gearing up for conflict rather than a sporting event. The club’s statement expressed concern over police brutality, alleging injuries resulted more from police actions than fan behavior.

Maccabi’s Position

Maccabi Tel Aviv also acknowledged the police’s decision to cancel the derby. In light of the situation, they supported efforts to ensure fans’ safety and well-being during future events.

Elsewhere in Football

In related news, Maccabi’s supporters received a ban from attending an upcoming Europa League match against Aston Villa. This decision was made by Birmingham’s Safety Advisory Group, which cited current intelligence that indicated a high risk of violence during the event.

Community Concerns

Ed Miliband, the UK Energy Secretary, expressed his commitment to cooperating with authorities to secure a safe environment for both teams’ fans during the European clash. He rejected the notion that the area could become unsafe for any community members.

Political Implications

Controversy brewed around the petition suggesting Maccabi fans be banned from Aston. Politicians, including Miliband, defended the participation of these fans, stating that it was crucial to maintain safety and community integration.

Local Reactions

  • Ayoub Khan, an independent MP, pushed back against inflammatory rhetoric regarding his safety petition, clarifying that it was based on community safety, not anti-Jewish sentiment.
  • Both Muslim and Jewish communities were urged to engage in dialogue to foster understanding and cohesion.

As authorities prepare for the upcoming matches, safety strategies are being developed to accommodate and protect all fans. The situation remains tense, with a focus on ensuring that sports events do not lead to violence.