Exclusive: Violent Maccabi fans were organised fighters 'linked to IDF', UK police found

Exclusive: Violent Maccabi Fans Linked to IDF, UK Police Reveal

New intelligence uncovered by Middle East Eye (MEE) led to the ban on Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from the Aston Villa game held this week. Dutch police informed their British counterparts that over 200 Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters who caused disturbances in Amsterdam in November 2024 were connected to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

In addition, hundreds more fans were described as "experienced fighters," "highly organised," and "intent on causing serious violence."

Political Controversy Over Fan Ban

The ban, enforced for the November 6 fixture at Aston Villa in Birmingham, sparked political debate and was labeled as antisemitic by the British government last month. However, the West Midlands Police decision leading to the ban relied heavily on intelligence shared by Dutch authorities concerning the behavior of Maccabi fans during the Amsterdam match.

Police Assessment Details

The Guardian reported on October 21 that the police assessment identified "the biggest risk of violence came from extremist fans of the Israeli club." New unrevealed information from MEE adds depth to this assessment, raising important questions about statements made by government ministers.

"The biggest risk of violence came from extremist fans of the Israeli club."

Ban Upheld Despite Government Criticism

Days before the match, the police and Birmingham's safety advisory group confirmed the ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans would remain, even after criticism from government officials. Meanwhile, Maccabi Tel Aviv decided not to sell tickets to their supporters for this fixture.

Author's summary: New intelligence linking violent Maccabi Tel Aviv fans to the IDF has justified their ban from the Aston Villa match, despite accusations of antisemitism from the UK government.

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Middle East Eye Middle East Eye — 2025-11-04

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