French President Emmanuel Macron intends to be at the stadium during the soccer match between the national teams of France and Israel, which will be held on November 14 at the Stade de France. in Paris, Agence France-Presse (AFP) reported, citing the Elysee Palace.
The entourage of the French leader noted that in this way he intended to "send a signal of brotherhood and solidarity after the unacceptable acts of anti-Semitism that took place after the match in Amsterdam this week". At the same time, Israeli authorities have advised their citizens to refrain from attending this match due to concerns about a threat to their safety, the agency said.
Earlier, Paris police prefect Laurent Nunez said on television channel BFMTV that French law enforcement agencies intend to take increased security measures in the organization of this match. 4,000 policemen and 2,500 gendarmes will be sent to maintain order in and around the stadium. In addition to them, 1,600 security guards will work at the stadium, despite the fact that on average no more than 1,300 security guards are deployed at major matches in France. Also 1,500 police and gendarmerie personnel will be in Paris and in transport.
On November 8 in Amsterdam after a football match between the local club "Ajax" and Tel Aviv "Maccabi" riots ensued. At least 10 Israeli fans, believed to be Palestinian supporters, were injured in the attack. The city authorities passed an emergency decree providing for increased patrols and a ban on demonstrations throughout Amsterdam from November 8 to 10. Israel's National Security Council (NSC) has advised its fellow citizens who are able to return to the country immediately.
According to the Palestinian side, Israeli soccer fans, who allegedly included soldiers of the Jewish state, shouted “anti-Arab slogans” and also disrespected Palestinian symbols, including the Palestinian flag.