UK Police Watchdog Probes Ban on Maccabi Fans

The UK's Independent Office for Police Conduct is reporting that a former police chief, three officers, and a police staff member are under investigation over the controversial decision to bar Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from a Europa League match in Birmingham last November. According to the IOPC, the probe covers the planning of the Nov. 6 clash between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Aston Villa at Villa Park, where Israeli fans were shut out amid security concerns that drew sharp criticism from Jewish groups and Israel's supporters at the time. The watchdog says investigators have reviewed more than 600 pieces of evidence, including police reports, intelligence research, meeting records, emails, messages, witness statements, and expert advice. The decision to ban Israeli fans sparked outrage, with critics accusing British authorities of capitulating to threats rather than protecting supporters' right to attend.