A former fighter from a militant group has been revealed as a key figure behind a report that campaigners say influenced police to ban Israeli football fans from attending an upcoming match in Birmingham. Dyab Abou Jahjah, chair of the Hind Rajab Foundation, helped compile a dossier for the 'Game Over Israel' campaign, which was submitted to West Midlands Police before the Europa League fixture at Villa Park. The document argued that Israeli participation in global sport is indefensible and cited risks of community tension, referencing previous incidents involving Israeli fans.

Abou Jahjah's background includes military training and public support for controversial views, as well as previous involvement in organisations fined for Holocaust denial. The police decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans has sparked outrage, with calls from senior government officials for it to be reversed and concerns raised about the influence of Abou Jahjah's report. Legal action is being considered against the authorities involved, while the debate continues over public safety, free speech, and the role of campaign groups in shaping official decisions.