Protests erupted outside Villa Park in Birmingham as Maccabi Tel Aviv played a high-profile football match amid heightened tensions over the Gaza conflict. Palestinian flags and placards lined the streets, while rival demonstrations from pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli groups faced off, separated by a heavy police presence. The match was deemed 'high risk' after local politicians and activists campaigned against the Israeli team's visit, leading to a ban on away fans and sparking national political debate. Arrests were made as the atmosphere remained tense, with many local residents and fans expressing discomfort over the politicisation of the event and concerns for their safety. The controversy highlighted deep divisions within the community and raised questions about the intersection of sport, politics, and public safety in the United Kingdom.