UEFA had previously considered suspending Israeli teams from competitions earlier this year, but postponed such sanctions due to the Gaza ceasefire, which temporarily eased tensions.

The Safety Advisory Group issued formal guidance to both the club and UEFA, highlighting safety considerations for the match, which is part of the European competition's group stage.

The decision has sparked criticism from figures like Lord Ian Austin, who expressed concern that it could damage Birmingham’s reputation and its ability to host international events.

A decision to ban Israeli fans from attending the Aston Villa versus Maccabi Tel Aviv match on November 6 has been implemented due to safety concerns, with West Midlands Police citing previous violent clashes and hate crimes as reasons for classifying the game as high risk.

The Palestine Solidarity Campaign opposed the ban, condemning Israeli actions and calling for the match's cancellation, framing it within broader political conflicts.

British MP Nadine Dorries urged the government to ensure Jewish fans can safely attend football matches in Britain, warning that restrictions send a message that some places are unsafe for Jews.

This controversy comes amid recent terrorist attacks and ongoing antisemitic hate crimes in the UK, which heighten the sensitivity surrounding security and safety at sporting events.

Similar restrictions have been seen in other European matches, such as Ajax supporters barred in Marseille and ticket restrictions for Frankfurt fans in Naples, citing security concerns.

The ban has faced criticism from politicians including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Nigel Huddleston MP, who have called for investigations and described the decision as 'the wrong decision.'

The Safety Advisory Group approved the ban, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding public and local residents amid ongoing security concerns.

Some UK officials and politicians, such as Nigel Huddleston MP, have criticized the ban, arguing it undermines the unifying power of sports and calling for safety measures to be reassessed.

Additionally, former Labour MP Lord Ian Austin warned that the decision could harm Birmingham's international reputation and jeopardize future major sporting events, including the 2028 European Championships.