11 Nov 2024 | 01:52 PM UTC
France: Authorities to increase security ahead of football match at Paris' Stade de France on Nov. 14
Tight security planned ahead of France-Israel football match held at Stade de France, Paris, France, Nov. 14; possible clashes.
Authorities plan to tighten security in Paris ahead of the France-Israel football match at the Stade de France from 20:45 Nov. 14. Authorities will deploy at least 2,500 law enforcement officers near the stadium and another 1,500 on public transport across the city to monitor gatherings of football fans. An anti-terrorist security perimeter will reportedly be set around the stadium. Authorities report that fans and viewers will not be allowed to access the stadium area with backpacks or containers for liquid materials. Political activists denouncing the ongoing conflict in the Middle East are likely to protest the presence of Israeli footballers and supporters in Paris. Identity checks across Paris' public transport network are likely to intensify on Nov. 14.
Localized transport and road travel disruptions are likely. Confrontations and violence between rival groups, as well as between supporters and police, are possible. Although unlikely to be targeted, bystanders would face an incidental risk of being caught in any violence.
Avoid the affected area as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check for disruptions and allow extra time for travel in the affected areas through Nov. 14. Avoid all protests. Report suspicious persons or packages to officials.
The France-Israel match represents a high-risk event. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to generate protests across Europe as crowds openly support opposing sides involved in the conflict. Demonstrations, protests, and occasional violence continue to occur in Europe's major cities on occasion of significant dates, events, or conflict developments.
On Nov. 7, a similar football match (Ajax vs Maccabi Tel Aviv) held in the Netherlands sparked violent unrest across Amsterdam, leading to several arrests and injuries. Dutch authorities imposed ongoing security measures and evacuated Israeli citizens deemed at risk. Authorities in Paris could decide to hold the game behind closed doors in the days or hours ahead of the match if security risks are deemed too high.
