Italy Fans Protest During Israel Anthem at Nations League Match in Hungary

A group of Italy fans protested during Israel's national anthem before a Nations League match in Hungary. They turned their backs and held flags with 'Liberta.' The protest comes amid Israel's relocation of home games due to conflict with Hamas. Other protests and tensions surrounding the match were reported.

In a palpable display of dissent, approximately 50 Italy fans clad in black turned their backs during Israel's national anthem before a Nations League match held in neutral Hungary. The fans also brandished an Italian flag inscribed with the term 'Liberta' (Freedom) during Monday's match.

Israel has relocated its home games to Hungary amidst ongoing conflict with Hamas. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, an ally of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has proclaimed Hungary as the safest country in Europe for Jews and has banned Palestinian solidarity protests citing public safety concerns.

This group of Italy supporters also chanted against Italian anti-fascist activist Ilaria Salis, who was recently freed from house arrest in Budapest. Salis, now a European Parliament member, became a political flashpoint in Italy after images of her handcuffed in a Hungarian courtroom surfaced. The match took place at Bozsik Arena in Budapest, and further tensions are expected when Italy hosts Israel in Udine on October 14.

(With inputs from agencies.)