Criticism has been directed towards Arsenal for their inability to prevent a pro-Palestine gathering, as Jewish supporters expressed feeling intimidated and ultimately leaving before the Women’s Super League match against Tottenham last Sunday.
A fan who typically attends women’s matches expressed feeling “betrayed” by Arsenal due to the presence of an anti-Israel protest outside the Emirates Stadium. As a result, the supporter chose not to enter the stadium and will likely miss Wednesday’s League Cup semi-final against Aston Villa at Boreham Wood.
Approximately 20 fans decided not to attend the event due to a demonstration, which was ignited by the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Arsenal has been informed of frustration among their Jewish fans, who feel that their safety was put at risk due to security personnel not containing the protest.
Some concerns have been expressed regarding the presence of Palestine flags and a banner demanding for the WSL to terminate its partnership with Barclays at the game. These items, which were brought in by pro-Palestine protesters due to Barclays’ ties to Israel, violated rules and regulations. One of the banners displayed a Palestine flag and the message “Kick Barclays Out”. Arsenal confirmed that prompt measures were taken to confiscate the flags and individuals who refused to follow instructions from stewards were removed from the venue.
Fans who were worried about the rally, hosted by Football For Palestine, had informed Arsenal prior to the day of the game. Jewish supporters were informed that the club would make an effort to keep the protest away from fans and prioritize their safety. It was emphasized that security would be vigilant for any political or provocative messaging.
A proponent of the Jewish community who reached the venue over two hours prior to the start of the game informed the Guardian that the protestors were already rallying outside the Clock End, near the Thierry Henry statue. Luggage inspections and security screenings are conducted at several areas before being allowed to move from the lower to upper concourse, where the turnstiles are situated.
The fan claims to have requested assistance from security personnel to put an end to the protesters’ demonstration, but was informed that no action could be taken. Prior to the game, Arsenal evaluated the protest and coordinated with the Metropolitan police to decide on the most effective course of action, which was to contain it outside the Clock End. This was done in an effort to prevent the protest from spreading and to prevent any escalation. Arsenal stated that they were unable to intervene in the protest as the upper concourse is considered public property, not private.
Activists distributed flyers, plastered stickers, and tried to communicate with individuals coming to the venue. A banner, displayed alongside a Palestinian flag, declared that “Barclays is complicit in bloodshed.” One sticker read “Opposed to Zionism.” Multiple Jewish attendees claimed to have witnessed a banner featuring a map indicating the elimination of Israel.
Members of the Jewish Gooners group expressed feeling unsafe and chose to leave without witnessing any gameplay. Despite reassurance from the club prior to the event, it was unable to create an inclusive environment for all fans.
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Arsenal released a statement ensuring that the safety of all supporters at their matches is their main concern. They collaborated with the Metropolitan Police before Sunday’s fixture to formulate a plan to minimize any potential disruptions caused by demonstrations.
The event occurred in a public area near Emirates Stadium, and we do not have the authority to prevent demonstrations in public spaces. Our staff promptly addressed any instances of banned items being found within the stadium.
The organization Football For Palestine is urging for a cease of partnership agreements with companies linked to Israel, the removal of Israel and their clubs from Fifa and Uefa until a lasting truce is reached and the “unlawful occupation of Palestine” comes to an end, as well as for the Football Association to permit displays of support for Palestine.
Source: theguardian.com
