Brussels, a key city for the EU and NATO, has declined to host an upcoming Nations League match between Israel and Belgium in September citing concerns over potential mass demonstrations related to the Gaza conflict. The decision came after discussions between city authorities, the federal government, police, and the Royal Belgian Football Association. The city stated that organizing a high-risk match amidst the Middle East crisis is untenable.
Belgium, placed in Group A2 of the UEFA Nations League with France, Italy, and Israel, now faces the challenge of finding an alternative venue for the match. The Belgian Football Federation expressed regret over Brussels’ decision, even proposing a closed-door event at the King Baudouin Stadium. However, other Belgian cities are reportedly hesitant to host the game as well.
In a parallel development, the city of Lodz in Poland also declined hosting Israeli team Maccabi Haifa’s games, pointing to security concerns. These decisions are part of broader international controversy around Israel’s participation in football competitions, with FIFA considering a Palestinian proposal to suspend Israel over alleged violations of its regulations.