UK: Large police presence ahead of Maccabi Tel Aviv game

Police preparations are under way in Birmingham ahead of the controversial football match between Aston Villa and Maccabi Tel Aviv on November 6th, according to Middle East Eye plus agencies.

Over 700 officers have been mobilized near the Villa Park stadium, as well as drones, dogs and mounted police, according to a West Midlands police official.

The police force has opted to ban Israeli fans from attending the game, due to their history of violence and racism, but it is still considered a high risk event. Several protests, including one organized by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign and another in support of Maccabi, have also been announced, heightening tensions.

Middle East Eye via AFP