Europe
France Ramps Up Security for Israel Match Amid Tensions
In response to recent violence in Amsterdam targeting Maccabi Tel Aviv fans, France is deploying a substantial security force for Thursday’s UEFA Nations League match between France and Israel.
Approximately 4,000 police officers will be stationed throughout Paris, including 2,500 at the Stade de France in the northern suburbs, with the remainder monitoring public transport and other areas in the capital. Additionally, 1,600 private security guards will manage security inside the stadium, supported by an elite anti-terrorist unit safeguarding the visiting Israeli team.
Paris police chief Laurent Nuñez described the match as “high-risk” due to an “extremely tense geopolitical context,” pledging firm measures to prevent any disruptions. The match follows recent unrest after Ajax faced Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam, where Maccabi fans were attacked in the streets. Israeli fan attendance is expected to be limited to around 100 individuals, with the 80,000-seat stadium restricted to a quarter of its capacity.
Tensions were stoked after Maccabi fans allegedly vandalized property and clashed with locals, igniting widespread condemnation from European leaders over rising antisemitism. French President Emmanuel Macron, aiming to express solidarity, will attend the game alongside Prime Minister Michel Barnier and former presidents François Hollande and Nicolas Sarkozy. Local businesses have been advised to close early, and heightened ID checks are expected for attendees.
The Stade de France has faced scrutiny over security lapses in the past, including incidents at the 2022 UEFA Champions League final. However, recent high-profile events, such as the Rugby World Cup and Paris Olympics, proceeded without significant issues. Calls from France’s far-left party, La France Insoumise (LFI), to cancel the match over political concerns were dismissed by Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, who emphasized France’s commitment to “stand firm against those who incite hate.”
Pre-game tensions continue as pro-Palestinian demonstrations take place in Paris, clashing with police as protests coincided with a pro-Israeli gala event. Relations between France and Israel have been strained in recent weeks, with mutual accusations stemming from France’s support for a UN-proposed ceasefire and recent detentions of French officials in East Jerusalem.
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