France Vs Israel, Security Questioned After Banner Supports Palestine From PSG Supporters

JAKARTA - France is scheduled to face Israel in the 2024/2025 UEFA Nations League match at the Stade de France, November 15, 2024.

Les Bleus has prepared 80,000 seats for the match.

The problem now is about security during the French vs Israel match. As is known, France is a country that has the largest Jewish community in Europe and the third in the world.

In addition, France also has the largest number of Muslims in Europe.

Security questions came as the voices of protests from supporters. Most recently, Paris Saint-Germain supporters unfurled a "Free Palestine" banner in the Champions League match against Atletico Madrid on Thursday, November 7, 2024.

"War on the ground, but peace in the world."

"Does the life of a child in Gaza mean less than the lives of another child?" read the banner message.

Last month, Paris Police officials said the match would, of course, be open to the public.

However, the actions of PSG supporters raised concerns that put pressure on security.

Meanwhile, Italy played against Israel in Udine amid tight security.

It's different with Belgium playing home games against Israel in Debrecen, Hungary.

You see, the Belgian Football Federation (Royal Belgian FA) said that the Government was unable to hold a home match against Israel.

"In Belgium, no local government considers it possible to host a home match of the Belgian national team against Israel," read a statement by the Royal Belgian FA.

PSG supporters' actions received opposition from Les Parisiens and the French government.

"Pary Saint-Germain remembers that the Parc des Princes are a place of association for football. Firmly oppose any political message in its stadium. It must remain," PSG said in a statement.

"I am not ruling out anything (sanctions). I will demand an explanation from PSG," said French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, to Sud Radio.

After facing Israel at home, the French national team will visit Italy on November 18, 2024.