Several schools in Birmingham are closing ahead of the Aston Villa versus Maccabi Tel Aviv match. The Europa League game at Villa Park tonight has been labeled “high risk” by West Midlands Police after a comprehensive assessment due to past incidents. Maccabi Tel Aviv fans were prohibited from attending the match last month for safety reasons, drawing criticism from politicians, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Five protest groups, representing pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli factions, are expected to demonstrate tonight, accompanied by approximately 700 police officers to ensure safety.
Anticipated protests come amidst global condemnation of Israel for the escalating death toll in Gaza. Calls have been mounting for UEFA and FIFA to ban Israeli national teams and clubs from international competitions, with UN advisory experts recommending sporting sanctions following a UN commission of inquiry declaring Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocide.
Despite the extensive police presence, schools in Birmingham are closing early. Mansfield Green E-ACT Primary Academy, located near Villa Park, will dismiss students at 2pm instead of the usual 3:15pm. The school informed parents in advance of the early closure due to the match.
Another school reported to close early is BOA Creative, Digital and Performing Arts Academy, with plans to shut at 1:15pm. The principal reportedly emailed parents about the early closure in response to planned protests in the area.
Former Labour MP, Lord Ian Austin, criticized the decision to close schools early as a “disgrace,” emphasizing the importance of enhancing education in the community rather than inciting tensions and disruptions.
A spokesperson from E-ACT Mansfield Green Academy stated that the early closure was advised by the local authority to mitigate congestion and disruption. The safety and well-being of students remain the top priority, with other schools in the area taking similar precautions.