Security concerns rise over Europa League matches involving Israeli club Hapoel Be'er Sheva

European football clubs and local authorities are facing security concerns regarding upcoming Europa League matches involving the Israeli club Hapoel Be'er Sheva.

In Belgium, the mayor of Leuven, Mohamed Ridouani, has refused permission to host a match between Union Saint-Gilloise and Hapoel Be'er Sheva on October 22. Although Union Saint-Gilloise intends to use Leuven as a temporary venue because their own stadium does not meet UEFA standards, Ridouani cited "public safety" as the reason for blocking the event. UEFA has indicated that the responsibility lies with the host club to secure an alternative venue.

In the Netherlands, the Socialist Party (SP) in Alkmaar has expressed opposition to hosting Hapoel Be'er Sheva for a match against AZ Alkmaar on October 15. Local party leader Rigo Wijdoogen argued against "importing" international conflicts and questioned whether the match could be held safely without an excessive drain on police and public resources. Local authorities are currently reviewing the security situation.