British police are on high alert in Birmingham as Aston Villa prepare to host Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv in Thursday’s UEFA Europa League match, amid growing tensions and planned demonstrations. More than 700 officers have been deployed across the city, with authorities warning of road closures and significant disruption around Villa Park, the city centre, and nearby areas. The fixture kicks off at 20:00 GMT, three weeks after Aston Villa barred visiting supporters due to security concerns raised by the West Midlands Police.
Chief Superintendent Tom Joyce confirmed that law enforcement had prepared extensively for the evening’s events. “We know protests by different groups will take place on the day, and we have plans in place which balance the right to protest with our duty to protect all communities in Birmingham,” Joyce said. “People not attending the event should expect significant disruption to the roads in the area and we’d urge people to avoid the area where possible.”
Pro-Palestine groups including Game Over Israel, the Hind Rajab Foundation, and Health Workers 4 Palestine have announced plans to rally outside Villa Park, calling for Israel’s removal from FIFA. Palestinian flags and banners have already appeared on bridges leading into Birmingham, underscoring the deep political divisions surrounding the match. With tensions running high both inside and outside the stadium, can authorities maintain calm as football and politics once again collide on the European stage? Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
