Villa Park, Birmingham, UK — November 6, 2025 — A significant security operation is in place ahead of tonight’s Europa League fixture between Aston Villa and Maccabi Tel Aviv, with anti-Israel protests already beginning in the surrounding area. Protesters are seen displaying Palestinian flags and anti-war signs in and around Villa Park, raising concerns as the match approaches.
What Happened:
As early as 8 am today, anti-Israel campaigners were visible around Villa Park, with signs posted on lampposts and banners reading “No war games allowed.” While the area appeared calm, the presence of protesters has already been felt, and multiple demonstrations are expected later in the day. Police have ramped up security with a reported 700 officers on duty, making this one of the most heavily policed matchdays in recent memory.
This heightened security comes even though Maccabi Tel Aviv fans will not be in attendance. The club opted out of a ticket allocation after a safety assessment deemed it too dangerous for their supporters to attend. As a result, the security focus is on managing protests from both sides of the Palestine-Israel debate.
Who Are the Protesters?
Protests, including those by anti-Israel groups, have been a regular occurrence in recent months due to ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestine. As Villa Park prepares for the match, up to five protests are expected to take place in and around the stadium. Protesters have expressed concerns about the conflict and the involvement of Israeli teams in European competitions. They are calling for greater awareness of the ongoing humanitarian issues in the region.
Security and Public Reactions:
To ensure safety and prevent potential clashes, West Midlands Police have implemented an extensive security plan. This includes extra ticket checks for Villa fans, road closures around the stadium, and early school closures in the area. Schools are being dismissed early to avoid any potential flashpoints near the stadium before the 8 pm kick-off.
Despite the heavy police presence, some Villa fans have expressed reluctance to attend the match, citing the complicated atmosphere surrounding it. Long-time season ticket holders have said the risks and the tensions surrounding the match make it not worth attending.
A spokesperson from the Witton Arms pub, a popular pre-game spot just a stone’s throw from Villa Park, stated that they have “full faith” in the police to manage the situation. “We’ve increased our security presence for the day to ensure everyone feels more comfortable and safe,” the spokesperson added, emphasizing the pub’s commitment to providing a “family-friendly environment.”
What Happens Next:
With the match set to kick off at 8 pm, the situation remains fluid. The police are expected to continue monitoring protests and maintain tight control over the area. The public and supporters are urged to follow the authorities’ guidance and be mindful of the protests, especially in light of the unprecedented level of policing on this matchday.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
