Paris, France – November 10, 2024

In an unprecedented move, Paris police announced plans to deploy 4,000 officers and 1,600 stadium staff to secure the upcoming UEFA Nations League soccer match between France and Israel. The decision comes just a few days after Israeli fans were attacked in Amsterdam, prompting heightened security concerns across Europe.

The match, scheduled for Thursday, will be held at Paris’s Stade de France, and French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to attend, according to the Élysée Palace. The French government aims to ensure the safety of fans and the public amidst escalating fears of antisemitic violence linked to international soccer events.

In light of the recent violence in Amsterdam, Israel’s National Security Council issued a warning on Sunday advising Israeli citizens abroad to avoid large gatherings, particularly sports and cultural events, and to remain vigilant against potential violence that may be masked as protests. The council’s statement specifically referenced the upcoming match in Paris as a potential risk.

The Paris police force is preparing an extensive security operation that will encompass the stadium, surrounding areas, and public transportation networks to prevent any attempts to incite or carry out violence against fans. Paris authorities have coordinated with local transportation services to bolster safety and mitigate possible disturbances in the wake of the events in Amsterdam.

Tensions have been high following the violence in the Dutch capital, where fans of Israel’s Maccabi Tel Aviv were subjected to a series of targeted attacks by individuals on scooters, leading to condemnation by Dutch officials. Mayor Femke Halsema described the attacks as “a terrible moment” for Amsterdam, vowing to restore public order and investigate the incidents as potential hate crimes.

In Paris, security officials are determined to prevent any similar incidents as Europe grapples with rising concerns over antisemitic acts. The heavy police presence on Thursday reflects a zero-tolerance approach to any attempts to disrupt the match or endanger attendees.

Aside from its significance in the standings, the UEFA Nations League match also stands as a test of France’s commitment to maintaining safety and promoting inclusivity, as authorities work to ensure the game is played without incident.