New Delhi: In a poignant display of solidarity with the Palestinian people, Italian soccer fans turned their backs during the Israeli national anthem before their Nations League match against Hungary at the Bozsik Arena in Budapest. A group of 50 Itlay fans’ silent protest was a clear statement against the Israeli government’s policies towards Palestinians, particularly the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip.
The decision to stage this demonstration was likely influenced by the recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East with Israeli airstrikes targeting Gaza and Palestinian rocket attacks on Israel. The Italian fans’ action was a way to express their deep concern and disapproval of the violence and suffering inflicted upon the Palestinian people.
By turning their backs during the Israeli national anthem, the Italian fans were effectively refusing to recognise or acknowledge the Israeli government. Italian fans also held an Italian flag that read “Liberta” (Freedom). Various banners that the “ultra” fans had hung had black slashes on them.
Israel moved its home game to Hungary because of the conflict with Hamas. Iisrael’s opening fixture with Belgium was also played in Debrecen, Hungary.
As reported by the Italian daily Corriere della Sera, the same group of protesters also chanted Italian anti-fascist activist Ilaria Salis during the first half. Salis faced accusations for allegedly attacking far-right demonstrators, but he was eventually released from house detention in Budapest in June.
Following the release of photos showing Salis chained and shackled in a Hungarian courtroom during her trial, she became a contentious political topic in Italy.
This symbolic gesture was a powerful way to send a message of support to the Palestinian cause and to denounce the human rights abuses committed by the Israeli authorities. It is just a football game, but Israeli sports and athletes have been at the receiving end of the country’s political stances over the years.
Italy’s Udine is set to welcome Israel on October 14. Still, the local council has not approved the fixture, and the northern city has planned a pro-Palestinian demonstration on the same day.
Italian soccer fans defy the odds, turning their backs on the Israeli national anthem in a silent protest against Israeli policies. Their bold stance sends a powerful message of solidarity with the Palestinian people. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
