Pro-Palestinian protest in Udine ahead of Italy-Israel match

A pro-Palestinian demonstration has begun in Udine, Italy, ahead of tonight’s Nations League football match between Italy and Israel. The protest, which started in Piazza della Repubblica, is organized by several groups including the Pro-Palestine Committee of Udine, the Palestinian Community of Friuli Venezia Giulia and Veneto, and Young Palestinians FVG.

Calciomercato report that demonstrators are carrying flags and banners with slogans such as “Let’s kick apartheid” and “Israel out of FIFA,” expressing their opposition to Israel’s participation in international football.

The protest march is moving through the city center, beginning at 5 PM local time. In response to the demonstration and the high-profile nature of the match, security measures have been significantly increased. Approximately 1,000 law enforcement officers are on duty to monitor both the pro-Palestinian protests and the football match, which kicked off at 8:45 PM at the Bluenergy Stadium.

In addition to the police presence, the Italian Football Federation has hired 450 stewards, typically employed by Udinese Calcio, to conduct pre-screening procedures before fans enter the stadium. The security operation involves not only local police and carabinieri but also Italian and Israeli intelligence services, reflecting the heightened sensitivity surrounding the event.