Angry protests held Italy against Israeli participation in basketball

ROMA, Nov. 22 (YPA) – Clashes erupted on Friday in the Italian city of Bologna between police and protesters demonstrating against the participation of Maccabi Tel Aviv basketball team against Bologna in the EuroLeague.

Photos circulated showing Italian police officers spraying water on protesters during demonstrations against the visiting Israeli basketball team, alongside images of fans waving Palestinian flags.

According to the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, the protesters condemned the decision to hold the match, called for the suspension of the Israeli occupation’s participation in international sporting events, and clashed with Italian police deployed in the area.

The clashes included the throwing of fireworks at police officers, who responded with tear gas, according to local reports.

Italian authorities confirmed that the demonstration and clashes occurred away from the stadium.

Security measures around the venue were significantly increased due to the sensitivities surrounding Maccabi Tel Aviv’s visit.

AA