Heightened Security Measures for France-Israel Soccer Match
In a significant response to recent violence against Israeli fans in Amsterdam, Paris police announced they will deploy 4,000 officers and 1,600 stadium staff for the upcoming UEFA Nations League match between France and Israel at the Stade de France on Thursday. This decision comes amidst heightened security concerns following anti-Semitic attacks that marred a previous match in Amsterdam, where several Israeli fans were assaulted.
Paris police chief Laurent Nuñez emphasized the necessity of this extensive security presence, stating that the match is considered a high-risk event due to the current geopolitical tensions. He confirmed that an anti-terrorist security perimeter will be established around the stadium, with rigorous security checks including body and bag searches at multiple entry points. Nuñez assured that police would maintain a strong presence not only around the stadium but also across public transport routes and in the city center to prevent disturbances.
Controversial Gala and Pro-Israeli Rally
On the eve of the match, a pro-Israeli rally featuring Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich is scheduled to take place in Paris. This event, organized by the Betar youth movement and the French Jewish Student Movement (MEJF), has faced criticism from various French associations and left-wing parties due to Smotrich's controversial political stance. Despite calls for its cancellation, police have confirmed that the rally will proceed as planned.
The Paris Administrative Court recently rejected an appeal to ban the gala, stating it did not pose an imminent threat. Nuñez reiterated that while the event is controversial, it falls within the rights of assembly, provided there are no concrete threats. The rally is expected to coincide with the match, further intensifying security measures in the area.
The French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has also expressed support for the match proceeding as scheduled, highlighting the importance of not yielding to threats amidst a backdrop of rising anti-Semitism. French President Emmanuel Macron's attendance is viewed as a gesture of solidarity against the violence faced by Israeli supporters in Amsterdam.
As fans prepare for the match, the Paris police force is committed to ensuring a safe environment, with an emphasis on preventing any form of violence or public disorder during the event.
