Sat Nov 16 00:36:38 UTC 2024: ## France-Israel Match Marked by Protests and Anti-Semitic Incidents Amidst Heightened Security

**PARIS** – The European Nations League match between France and Israel in Paris on Thursday was overshadowed by pre-match protests and isolated incidents of anti-Semitic behavior during the Israeli national anthem. Despite heavy security measures following violent clashes between Israeli and pro-Palestinian fans in Amsterdam the previous week, the game itself ended in a 0-0 draw with only minor scuffles reported in the sparsely attended stadium.

Thousands of police and an elite anti-terrorist unit were deployed to secure the Stade de France, where approximately 100 Israeli fans, defying government travel warnings, attended the match amidst a significantly lower-than-capacity crowd. These fans chanted “Free the Hostages,” referring to Israelis held captive in Gaza. Simultaneously, several hundred pro-Palestinian demonstrators protested near the stadium, displaying banners condemning the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

While President Emmanuel Macron, attending the match with Prime Minister Michel Barnier, reiterated France’s stance against antisemitism, some spectators booed and whistled during the Israeli anthem. Stewards intervened in several minor clashes between rival supporters.

The incident comes amidst heightened tensions between France and Israel, with Macron facing criticism from both sides for his handling of the conflict. His recent comments on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict have been interpreted differently in both countries. Meanwhile, pre-match tensions also flared after a pro-Israel event was held in Paris, prompting further protests and clashes. France’s far-left party even called for the match’s cancellation.

Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau stated that France would not yield to those promoting hatred, underscoring the government’s commitment to maintaining order despite the polarized atmosphere surrounding the match. The heavy security presence, however, successfully prevented a repeat of the Amsterdam violence.

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