Protests staged in Oslo against Israeli participation in World Cup qualifiers

OSLO, Oct. 12 (YPA) – Protests and tight security measures were carried out on Saturday in Oslo city ahead of Norway’s World Cup qualifier against “Israel”, amid divisions among Norwegian fans over “Israel”‘s participation in the tournament due to the war in Gaza.

Hundreds of pro-Palestinian supporters gathered outside the Norwegian parliament to protest, many wearing Palestinian national team shirts.

“This match shouldn’t have taken place. If Russia is excluded, “Israel” should be excluded too,” said Johan, a Norway fan wearing a Palestinian national team shirt.

“But since the match is going ahead, the best thing Norway can do is destroy Israeli hopes of qualifying for the World Cup.”

Protesters gathered outside the Ullevaal stadium, waving Palestinian flags and fireworks, and vowed to continue until the kickoff at 1600 GMT. Pro-Palestinian banners were hung from the balconies of nearby buildings.

Security measures were tightened around the stadium, with police closing several nearby entrances hours before the match, conducting bag searches, and limiting the number of fans allowed in.

Norway leads Group A with 15 points from five matches, and a win against “Israel” would put them on the cusp of qualifying for next year’s World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

AA