Belgium Refuses to Host Football Match against Israel Due to Gaza Situation
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Belgium has decided not to host a UEFA Nations League match against Israel in September, because of the “dramatic situation in Gaza” that creates a security headache for city officials.
Brussels' first alderman, Benoit Hellings, announced that the city determined organizing the match, scheduled for September 6 at Stade Roi Baudouin, is "not possible."
Hellings stated that Brussels officials had extensive discussions with the federal government, police forces, and the Belgian football federation (URBSFA) regarding the match.
"Today, it is clear that the announcement of such a match being held in our capital will undoubtedly provoke major (counter-) demonstrations, compromising the safety of spectators, players, residents and our police forces alike," Hellings said in a statement.
He emphasized that matches involving the Red Devils have traditionally been moments of unity and togetherness. However, the current humanitarian and security situation in Gaza and its repercussions have led the city to inform URBSFA that hosting the match at Stade Roi Baudouin is not feasible.
The latest casualties bring the total number of people killed in Gaza since October 7 to 37,396, with 85,523 wounded.
