Several schools in Birmingham are closing early in anticipation of the upcoming Aston Villa versus Maccabi Tel Aviv football match. The Europa League fixture at Villa Park tonight has been labeled as “high risk” by West Midlands Police after a thorough assessment based on past incidents. Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters were prohibited from attending the game last month due to safety concerns, which received criticism from politicians, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Five protest groups, representing pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli factions, are expected to gather, accompanied by approximately 700 police officers to ensure the safety of football enthusiasts and locals.
Protests are foreseen amidst global condemnation of Israel concerning the escalating death toll in Gaza. Calls have intensified for UEFA and FIFA to exclude Israel’s national teams and clubs from international competitions, following a UN commission of inquiry’s assertion of genocide in Gaza by Israel.
Despite the extensive police presence, schools in Birmingham are planning early closures. Mansfield Green E-ACT Primary Academy, situated near Villa Park, will dismiss students at 2pm instead of the usual 3:15pm closing time. The school notified parents in advance, stating the reason for the early closure due to the Villa match.
Another school reportedly closing early is BOA Creative, Digital and Performing Arts Academy, with plans to shut gates at 1:15pm. The principal informed parents via email about the early closure due to anticipated protests in the area.
Former Labour MP, Lord Ian Austin, criticized the decision to close schools early, calling it a “disgrace” and emphasizing the need for local leaders to focus on educational improvements rather than escalating tensions.
A spokesperson from E-ACT Mansfield Green Academy mentioned that the decision to close early was based on advice from the local authority to avoid congestion and disruption. The safety and well-being of students remain the top priority for the academy, with other schools in the vicinity taking similar precautions.
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