image sourced from original article at More than 700 officers will be deployed for Thursday's Europa League match between Aston Villa and Maccabi Tel Aviv at Villa Park, following heightened public safety concerns. Visiting fans have been barred from attending, a decision that has drawn criticism from government officials and led Maccabi Tel Aviv to decline any away tickets.
A protest organized by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign is set to take place near the stadium, calling for Israel's exclusion from international football and highlighting concerns over the involvement of Israeli clubs in disputed territories.
Police have emphasized their commitment to maintaining public safety and have warned that anyone engaging in crime or inciting hate will face immediate action. The demonstration is expected to assemble at Aston Park Pavilion, close to the stadium, ahead of the match.
