Linz hosts protests during Austria-Israel football match

Protests and demonstrations occurred in Linz, Austria, surrounding the UEFA Nations League match between Austria and Israel. Before the game, demonstrators gathered at the Linz Central Station to demand that the Austrian government terminate its military and commercial partnerships with Israel, specifically calling for the suspension of cooperation involving UAV engines and firearms.

During the match at the Raiffeisen Arena, Amnesty International displayed a banner reading ‘End genocide’ to draw attention to the situation in Gaza. The organization also called on UEFA and FIFA to suspend the Israel Football Association due to its support for illegal settlements. Additionally, spectators were reported to have whistled during the playing of the Israeli national anthem.

Security was heightened throughout the city due to the high-risk nature of the fixture. On the pitch, Israeli player Sayed Abu Farkhi was sent off after receiving a second yellow card following a controversial celebration.

Austria won the match 3-1.