Before a Nations League game in neutral Hungary, a group of perhaps fifty Italy supporters wearing all black turned their backs in apparent protest during Israel’s national song.
On Monday, the supporters of Italy also raised an Italian flag bearing the inscription “Liberta” (Freedom). Other flags flown by the “ultra” supporters bore black slashes.
Israel’s home games shifted to Hungary
Israel’s home games have been shifted to Hungary due to the Hamas conflict. Primo Minister of Hungary Viktor Orbán has long portrayed Hungary as the safest nation in Europe for Jews, and he maintains good ties with Benjamin Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel. Protests in support of Palestinian solidarity have been outlawed by Orbn, claiming they endanger public safety.
According to the Italian daily Corriere della Sera, during the first half, a section of Italy supporters who had turned their backs during the national anthem also yelled anti-fascist campaigner Ilaria Salis. Salis faced accusations for allegedly attacking far-right demonstrators, but she was eventually released from house detention in Budapest in June. Salis was freed following her election to the Italian Green and Left Alliance’s European Parliament seat.
Hosting an Israel match is threat to security
Following the release of photos showing Salis chained and shackled in a Hungarian courtroom during her trial, the woman became a contentious political topic in Italy. Bozsik Arena in Budapest hosted the Israel-Italy match, while Debrecen, Hungary hosted Belgium’s 3-1 victory against Israel on Friday.
Belgium was playing at home on Friday, but the Belgian soccer association stated in July that no Belgian local authority believes it is feasible to host a game against Israel due to security concerns. October 14 is Israel’s visit to Udine, Italy; nevertheless, the local council has not approved the match, and the same day in the northern city, a pro-Palestinian demonstration has been planned.
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