Information provided by the fans read: "By taking part in this display, you are joining football fans of conscience and courage around the world. ‘Israel’ is committing genocide, ethnic cleansing and apartheid. In the last 15 months, at least 382 Palestinian footballers and 235 other athletes have been killed, including 96 children and 286 youths. The Israeli occupation has destroyed 147 football facilities and 140 other sports venues across Palestine. These crimes have no place in our beautiful game."
Over the last 24 hours, websites in England and Scotland also referred to the anti-Israel demonstration and even noted that the team was preparing for the possibility of being punished by UEFA. "It is known for its heavy-handedness against Celtic's political protests," the Sun wrote. "UEFA have been known to come down hard on political displays during matches under their jurisdiction." The Green fans waved Palestinian flags in a 2-2 draw against Atletico Madrid in October 2023, and for this the team was fined 15,000 pounds. "It remains to be seen whether or not European football's governing body will want to take action this time or not."
Get the Ynetnews app on your smartphone: Google Play: https://bit.ly/4eJ37pE | Apple App Store: https://bit.ly/3ZL7iNv
The Sun also claimed that the European Union was acting in a similar manner, when they mentioned in the report the decision not to prosecute PSG for a similarly politically charged sign, which was waved by its fans during the Champions League match against Atletico Madrid last November and which read "Free Palestine." UEFA explained to Reuters that there will be no disciplinary proceedings because the sign cannot be considered provocative or offensive in this case.
Even before the match, the fans' website warned that UEFA has repeatedly warned Celtic about the actions of certain sections of the club's fans, who face potential sanctions if flares or other pyrotechnic devices are used, with the greatest concern expressed there being that the club would be punished by having the return match at the Allianz Arena held without an away crowd.