A major dispute has erupted between the UK government and West Midlands Police following a controversial decision to prohibit Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from attending an upcoming football match.
The Controversy
West Midlands Police announced plans to bar fans of the Israeli club from attending their Europa League fixture against Aston Villa, scheduled for November 6. The decision has sparked fierce criticism from senior political figures and football supporters alike.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer strongly condemned the move, calling it “the wrong decision” and pledging the government would do “everything in our power” to overturn it. He emphasized that police should ensure all football fans can attend matches “without fear of violence or intimidation.”
Home Secretary’s Prior Knowledge
A significant development emerged when it was revealed that Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood had been briefed about the proposed ban a full week before it was finalized. Chief Constable Craig Guildford of West Midlands Police personally informed her of the situation.
Home Office sources maintained that Mahmood was unable to intervene because no final decision had been made at that time. The Cabinet Office was also reportedly notified, though the Prime Minister’s office stated Sir Keir had not received advance warning.
Political Backlash
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch labeled the ban a “national disgrace” and argued Mahmood has “serious questions to answer.” She criticized what she called “a weak government that fails to act when required.”
Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick and Reform MP Danny Kruger went further, suggesting the chief constable should face dismissal if he maintains the ban. Jenrick proposed deploying sufficient police resources to accommodate the approximately 1,000 expected Maccabi supporters.
Police Defense
Police chiefs defended their position, stating they classified the match as high risk based on intelligence and previous incidents. They specifically referenced violent clashes and hate crimes that occurred during a Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam last year.
The force maintained that public safety concerns justified the decision and indicated they would require changes to existing law if politicians wished to assume direct control over match policing decisions.
Community Response
The ban has drawn sharp reactions from multiple quarters:
Emily Damari, a British-Israeli former Hamas hostage and devoted Maccabi supporter, expressed dismay at the decision, comparing it to discrimination reminiscent of historic exclusions.
Israel’s deputy foreign minister, Sharren Haskel, accused the police of applying inconsistent standards, noting that large demonstrations by various groups have been permitted in London.
The Campaign Against Antisemitism announced intentions to seek a judicial review to challenge the ban.
Aston Villa’s Jewish supporters’ club drew historical parallels, referencing the club’s proud 1938 refusal to perform a Nazi salute during a tour of Germany.
Next Steps
Following discussions between ministers and police, the government has requested that West Midlands Police present a revised plan outlining what additional resources would enable Israeli fans to attend safely.
Birmingham City Council’s Safety Advisory Group, which made the final decision based on police recommendations, is expected to reconsider the matter next week.
A government spokesperson reaffirmed that “no one should be stopped from watching a football game simply because of who they are” and pledged to work with all partners to ensure the match proceeds with full fan attendance.
