Criticism has been directed at Arsenal for their failure to prevent a pro-Palestine protest, as Jewish supporters reported feeling pressured to leave before the Women’s Super League match against Tottenham on Sunday.
A fan who frequently attends women’s matches expressed feeling “deceived” by Arsenal when they encountered an anti-Israel protest outside the Emirates Stadium. As a result, the supporter chose not to enter the stadium and is expected to also skip the League Cup semi-final against Aston Villa on Wednesday evening at Boreham Wood.
Around 20 individuals in support of a cause decided not to participate due to an ongoing demonstration that was triggered by Israel’s conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Arsenal has been informed of the frustration from Jewish supporters who feel their well-being was put at risk due to the security team not intervening to control the protest.
Inquiry has been made regarding the presence of Palestine flags and a sign advocating for the termination of WSL’s partnership with Barclays, which has been subjected to scrutiny by pro-Palestine activists due to its ties to Israel. These were illicitly brought into the stadium and exhibited during the match, violating regulations. One of the banners, reading “Kick Barclays Out,” featured a Palestinian flag. The Arsenal team promptly confiscated the flags and removed any individuals who refused to comply with security.
Fans who were worried about the gathering, led by Football For Palestine, had informed Arsenal about it prior to game day. Jewish supporters were informed that the club would make efforts to keep the protest away from them and prioritize their safety. It was emphasized that security would be vigilant for any political or provocative statements.
One Jewish fan, who showed up at the stadium in advance of the game, shared with the Guardian that the protestors were already gathered near the Thierry Henry statue at the Clock End. Pre-game procedures, including bag checks and security screenings, typically occur throughout various areas before fans can access the upper concourse and turnstiles.
The supporter claims that he repeatedly requested the security personnel nearby to intervene and implore the protesters to end their demonstration. However, he was informed that no action could be taken. Prior to the game, Arsenal evaluated the magnitude and purpose of the protest, coordinated with the Metropolitan police, and concluded that the most appropriate approach would be to confine it outside the Clock End section. The objective was to prevent any potential escalation and contain it within a certain boundary. Arsenal clarified that they were unable to intervene in the protest as the upper concourse is considered public property rather than private.
Demonstrators distributed flyers, placed stickers, and tried to interact with individuals arriving at the venue. One sign, displayed alongside a Palestinian flag, declared that “Barclays bears responsibility for bloodshed”. One sticker read “Against Zionism”. Multiple Jewish spectators mentioned witnessing a banner depicting a map implying the elimination of Israel.
The Jewish group of Arsenal fans stated that several of its members and their loved ones did not feel secure and chose to leave without watching the match. They also mentioned that despite the club’s promises prior to the game, it was unable to create an atmosphere of inclusivity for all supporters.
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In an official announcement, Arsenal stated that the well-being of all fans at our games is our main concern. Before the match on Sunday, we collaborated with the Metropolitan Police to establish a measure that would minimize any disruptions caused by demonstrations.
The event occurred in a public area near Emirates Stadium, and we do not have the authority to prevent demonstrations from happening in public areas. When our stewards noticed restricted items inside the stadium, they quickly handled the situation.
The organization Football For Palestine is urging for the termination of sponsorship agreements with companies associated with Israel, the removal of Israel and Israeli teams from Fifa and Uefa until a permanent ceasefire is achieved, and for the Football Association to permit demonstrations of support for Palestine.
Source: theguardian.com
