Exclusive: Organized Violence by Maccabi Fans Linked to IDF, UK Police Find
Middle East Eye reveals new intelligence that led to the ban on Israeli football club Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from the Aston Villa game on 6 November 2025. Dutch police informed their British counterparts that over 200 Maccabi fans who caused disturbances in Amsterdam in November 2024 were "linked to the Israel Defense Forces [IDF]." Additionally, hundreds more were described as "experienced fighters," "highly organised," and "intent on causing serious violence."
Background of the Ban
The West Midlands Police enforced the ban based on intelligence from the Dutch police regarding Maccabi fans' behavior during the Amsterdam match. This move sparked a political controversy. Last month, the British government condemned the ban as antisemitic.
The Guardian reported on 21 October that the police assessment "concluded the biggest risk of violence came from extremist fans of the Israeli club."
New Details and Ongoing Controversy
As the match date approached, Middle East Eye disclosed further police assessments not previously reported, questioning government statements. Despite criticism from officials, Birmingham's safety advisory group and police upheld the ban. Maccabi Tel Aviv eventually chose not to sell tickets to its fans for the fixture.
Key Points
- Dutch police alerted UK police about Maccabi fans' links to IDF and violent tendencies.
- Over 200 fans identified as linked to the IDF; many others as highly organized fighters.
- The ban on Maccabi fans led to political backlash and accusations of antisemitism.
- The ban was supported by local police and safety officials despite government criticism.
- Maccabi Tel Aviv opted not to distribute tickets to their fans for the game.
Author's Summary: New intelligence reveals that violent Maccabi Tel Aviv fans at a previous match were linked to the IDF and highly organized, justifying the UK police's ban despite political backlash.
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