The upcoming football match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Aston Villa in Birmingham has stirred significant controversy in England. British police have refrained from allocating 500 tickets to British Jewish fans, raising tensions ahead of the event.
Josh Howie, a well-known comedian and television host of Jewish heritage, urged Jewish fans to attend the match despite the effective ban. Speaking on GB News, Howie criticized the city authorities and police policies on the situation and announced his intention to attend the game as a form of protest.
"I am a British Jew, and on Thursday I am going to Birmingham to watch a football match!"
Howie condemned "bullies" who sought to prevent Jews from attending the match and encouraged other Jewish individuals to join him in defending British democracy.
In response, pro-Palestinian groups have promised a massive turnout at the event, increasing the likelihood of heightened tensions during the match.
The Maccabi Tel Aviv and Aston Villa game in Birmingham has become a focal point for political and community tensions, with calls for protest attendance from Jewish figures and promises of large demonstrations by pro-Palestinian groups.
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