Police and Journalists Injured in Clashes During Italy-Israel Match

Udine: Eight police officers and two journalists were injured in clashes between law enforcement and protestors seeking to stop Italy’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Israel from taking place. The confrontations occurred after the match commenced, despite largely peaceful protests beforehand.

According to Ansa News Agency, a group of pro-Palestinian activists engaged in altercations with police, throwing flares and other objects. In response, police deployed tear gas and water cannons to manage the crowd and detained 15 individuals.

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani addressed the Lower House, expressing solidarity with the injured officers and journalists, stating that the violent actions by pro-Palestinian extremists aimed to disrupt the match in Udine.

Inside the stadium, some of the 10,000 fans expressed disapproval by booing Israel’s national anthem before the match began, which Italy ultimately won 3-0.