West Midlands Police have faced intense criticism after admitting they banned supporters of Israeli football club Maccabi Tel Aviv from a match in Birmingham, citing fears they would be attacked by UK-based extremists.
Intelligence and a Flawed Risk Assessment
Assistant Chief Constable Mike O’Hara defended the controversial decision, insisting it was "based on safety" and not a conspiracy. He revealed that police intelligence indicated individuals would "actively seek out Maccabi fans and seek violence towards them."
Newly disclosed documents show the force was concerned that community groups in Birmingham might arm themselves. In a significant move, the police's own risk assessment was later altered. The perceived risk to the visiting Maccabi supporters was downgraded, while the threat to the local community was upgraded.
"Fake Information" and Missing Records
The decision-making process has been further undermined by senior officers admitting it was partly based on "fake information" found through a Google search. This related to an unrelated incident at a West Ham match in 2023.
In another critical oversight, police confirmed they had not kept any notes from crucial conversations with Dutch police authorities, who had experience policing matches involving the Israeli team.
Political Fallout and National Review
The ban triggered a major political row. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer condemned it as "the wrong decision." The fallout has been so significant that the Home Secretary has now ordered a policing watchdog to conduct a review of how police forces across England and Wales conduct risk assessments for public events.
This case has placed a spotlight on the immense pressure police forces are under when balancing public safety with the principles of free movement and assembly, especially in events with complex international and community tensions.
