Authorities have issued a warning to Israeli citizens abroad, particularly after violent incidents in Amsterdam during a sporting event.
“The National Security Council recommends that Israelis abroad take precautions, especially in the coming week”, the body linked to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced.
The council recommends “avoiding sporting and cultural events involving Israelis, especially the Israel national team match in Paris.” French President Emmanuel Macron has confirmed his attendance at the France-Israel match, which will be held at the Stade de France, north of Paris.
His participation aims to “send a message of fraternity and solidarity following the recent anti-Semitic acts associated with the match in Amsterdam”, according to an official statement from the Elysee Palace. Approximately 4,000 security officers will be deployed to ensure security during Thursday’s match.
Last Thursday, after the Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv, a group attacked Maccabi fans in Amsterdam after the 5-0 defeat. Meanwhile, the right-wing Jewish movement Betar announced a demonstration in Paris on Wednesday, the eve of the game, in conjunction with the Movement of French Jewish Students (MEJF). “We are proud Zionists and we have no apologies to make”, said Yigal Brand, Betar’s global president, expressing outrage at “the events in Amsterdam and the response of governments.”