UNIFIL Condemns Israeli Strikes in Southern Lebanon
Naqoura, Lebanon – November 5, 2025 – The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has strongly condemned a series of Israeli attacks targeting southern Lebanon today, escalating tensions along the border. The incidents occurred amidst heightened security measures in Birmingham, England, where Aston Villa faced Maccabi Tel Aviv in a Europa League match.
More than 700 police officers were deployed in Birmingham on Thursday due to the high-risk nature of the game, particularly as Maccabi Tel Aviv fans were discouraged from traveling to England. Aston Villa announced in October, following British police recommendations, that supporters of the Israeli club would not be permitted to attend the match, citing security concerns. Maccabi Tel aviv subsequently confirmed they would not send supporters,prioritizing their “security.”
The situation in Birmingham was further complicated by planned demonstrations. two protests were scheduled near the stadium, one organized by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign and another in support of Maccabi Tel Aviv.Videos circulating on social media showed signs reading “Zionists are not welcome” and the display of Palestinian flags. The presence of far-right activist Tommy Robinson and a subsequent increase in Islamophobic remarks online added to the volatile atmosphere.
Birmingham, a city with a notable Muslim population – nearly 30% according to a 2021 census – has experienced numerous pro-Palestinian rallies as the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas in Israel and the ensuing conflict in Gaza.
West Midlands Police official Tom Joyce stated the force’s objective was to “allow people to enjoy the match whilst continuing to keep everyone in Birmingham safe and facilitating peaceful protests,” deploying uniformed officers, mounted police, dogs, drones, and conducting road checks.
While the europa League match commenced at 8 p.m. local time (9 p.m. in Paris), UNIFIL’s condemnation of the attacks in Lebanon underscores the broader regional instability influencing events even thousands of miles away.
