(Credit: Reuters)
French authorities ban Palestinian flags at France-"Israel" football match
French authorities implemented rigorous security protocols for the upcoming France-"Israel" football match, set to take place this Thursday at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, Anadolu Agency reported.
The match, which is already drawing considerable attention amid the ongoing Israeli Occupation aggression on Gaza, will be held under heightened security following clashes at a recent match in the Netherlands.
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In an effort to maintain order and prevent political demonstrations, French officials have announced that spectators will not be allowed to bring Palestinian flags into the stadium, only French and Israeli flags will be permitted, along with messages that directly support the respective teams.
"Stadiums are meant for sports, not political protests," Paris police prefect Laurent Nuñez stated.
Security at the venue will be especially tight. Fans will undergo multiple rounds of security checks and ID verification as they approach the stadium, and any spectators who refuse to cooperate will not be granted entry.
In addition to uniformed police, plainclothes officers will be monitoring the stands during the match, and a specialized security unit, RAID, will ensure the safety of the "Israeli" football team. To further minimize risks, certain sections of the stadium close to the pitch will be left vacant.
Additionally, spectators will be required to show accreditation to enter the security zones surrounding the stadium, and fans are advised not to bring bags or bottles into the venue.
Local businesses in the area will be shutting down in anticipation of the event, while 4,000 police officers, along with 1,400 security personnel, will be on duty across the city and at the stadium.
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"Israeli" officials have also urged their citizens to avoid attending the match due to the tense atmosphere surrounding the event.