Jewish community ‘frustrated’ with police over handling of Maccabi Tel Aviv fans ban

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Neha Gohil Midlands correspondentJanuary 8, 2026 at 07:00 AM

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The West Midlands Police are facing criticism and calls for Chief Constable Craig Guildford's resignation over the ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans attending a Europa League match against Aston Villa on November 6th. Jewish community leaders in Birmingham and national groups like the Board of Deputies of British Jews are expressing "frustration" and "anger" over the ban's handling. They allege the police made the decision to ban fans and then sought evidence to justify it, failing to properly consult the Jewish community beforehand. During a parliamentary committee hearing, police defended the ban as safety-based, but MPs questioned the evidence presented. The Birmingham and West Midlands Jewish Community reports "conflicting reports" and confusion surrounding the reasons for the ban, which was made by a council-led security advisory group.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Europa League 35% Birmingham ×240% Kemi Badenoch 60% Villa Park 60% Board of Deputies of British Jews ×265% Aston Villa 70% Birmingham and West Midlands Jewish Community 70% Ruth Jacobs ×375% Maccabi Tel Aviv ×380% West Midlands Police ×385% Craig Guildford ×490%

Keywords

maccabi tel aviv fans ban 100% west midlands police 90% jewish community 80% craig guildford 70% aston villa 60% security advisory group 50% safety concerns 50% home affairs select committee 40%