Exclusive: Organized Violence by Maccabi Fans Linked to IDF, UK Police Reveal
Middle East Eye (MEE) reveals new intelligence behind the ban on Israeli Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from the Aston Villa match in Birmingham on 6 November 2025. Dutch police informed their UK counterparts that more than 200 Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters, responsible for violent disruptions in Amsterdam in November 2024, were linked to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Authorities further described hundreds of other fans as “experienced fighters,” “highly organised,” and determined to cause serious violence during the event.
Background and Political Context
The ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans sparked political controversy and was condemned by the British government as antisemitic last month. However, West Midlands Police based their decision on intelligence from Dutch law enforcement regarding Maccabi supporters’ behavior at the Amsterdam match last year.
The Guardian reported on 21 October that police concluded “the biggest risk of violence came from extremist fans of the Israeli club.”
Further Police Assessment Details
As the match day approached, MEE unveiled additional details about the police evaluation that had not been disclosed before. These revelations raise questions about public statements made by government officials.
Despite government criticism, the police and Birmingham's safety advisory group upheld the fan ban. Maccabi Tel Aviv later chose not to distribute tickets to its supporters for the fixture.
Summary
The intelligence linking Maccabi Tel Aviv’s violent fans to the IDF was pivotal in the UK police decision to ban their attendance, amidst a politically charged atmosphere.
Author’s summary: New intelligence revealed by UK and Dutch police exposed the violent, organized nature of Maccabi Tel Aviv fans tied to the IDF, justifying a fan ban despite political backlash.
More News
- Time to talk about Bruno! Brunno Ferreira defeats Marvin Vettori by Unanimous Decision
- Durham University
- Analysis: Spirited response can't mask issues at both ends
- Awareness walk held to commemorate INT'L Anti-Corruption Day
- Scott Parker's 'polar opposite' Newcastle United verdict
- North Little Rock maritime museum to commemorate anniversary of Pearl Harbor attack
- Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day 2025 Remembers 84 Years
- Durham Osteopathy Receives 2025 Consumer Choice Award
- UFC 323 Results
- View from the Opposition: Scott Parker on the challenge Palace pose