'This is wrong!' Keir Starmer blasts decision to ban Israeli fans from Aston Villa match

"This is the wrong decision," Sir Keir said. "We will not tolerate antisemitism on our streets.

"The role of the police is to ensure all football fans can enjoy the game, without fear of violence or intimidation."

The Prime Minister waded in on the row after the 26-time Israeli champions were told no fans would be able to enter Villa Park.

West Midlands Police expressed particular concern about its capability to deal with expected protests in Birmingham.

After the Safety Advisory Group informed Aston Villa of its decision, the ex-Champions League winners said: “The club are in continuous dialogue with Maccabi Tel Aviv and the local authorities throughout this ongoing process.

"The safety of supporters attending the match and the safety of local residents is at the forefront of any decision."

West Midlands Police added: "This decision is based on current intelligence and previous incidents, including violent clashes and hate crime offences that occurred during the 2024 Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam.

"Based on our professional judgement, we believe this measure will help mitigate risks to public safety.

"While the safety certificate is issued by Birmingham City Council, West Midlands Police supports the decision to prohibit away supporters from attending."

There was an outbreak of violence when Maccabi Tel Aviv visited Amsterdam to face Dutch giants Ajax last year.

At least five fans were admitted to hospital and another 30 sustained injuries after clashing with pro-Palestine activists.

However, the local MP for Birmingham Perry Barr Ayoub Khan supported the decision to ban the Israeli supporters.

The pro-Gaza MP, who is now a member of Jeremy Corbyn’s hard-left Your Party, said he welcomed the news that Maccabi Tel Aviv fans would "not be permitted to watch the match at Aston Villa.”

Mr Khan added: "Well done to all those that signed our petition!"
The petition, signed by Mr Khan and his fellow Mr Corbyn, attracted 3,861 signatures.

Meanwhile, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage joined Sir Keir in condemning the decision.

“This takes racial discrimination to a whole new level,” the Clacton MP said.

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch added: “it sends a horrendous and shameful message: there are parts of Britain where Jews simply cannot go."

Aston Villa go into November’s clash against the Israeli side sitting third in the Europa League.

Maccabi Tel Aviv still search for their first win in the continental tournament this year, having secured a point in the opening round against PAOK.

However, the decision taken by the joint committee has also sparked debate from both sides of the Israel-Palestine debate.

Gideon Sa'ar, Israeli Foreign Minister, said it was a "shameful decision" which should be reversed.

Meanwhile, the Palestine Solidarity Campaign suggested the decision to ban the club’s supporters from attending the clash at Villa Park did not go far enough.

“Israeli football teams shouldn't play in international tournaments whilst it commits genocide and apartheid,” the protest group said.

Israel has consistently denied that it has been committing a genocide, instead insisting its forces have been looking to destroy Hamas terrorists.

Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter