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The much-awaited city derby football game between Maccabi and Hapoel was called off following rioting broke out, with Israeli police pointing to “grave dangers to people”.

Unrest Breaks Out at the Stadium

The fixture was scheduled to be held on Sunday night at Bloomfield Stadium, a stadium used by the two clubs, serving as a home fixture for the Hapoel side.

Recordings released by authorities depicts projectiles along with flares being thrown onto the field, as well as disturbances outside the stadium.

Police Make Arrests and Report Injuries

The Israeli police announced having made nine arrests and brought 16 more in for questioning once the match was canceled “after violent incidents”.

Officers sustained injuries in what was described as “intense clashes”.

“Rioting and chaos, riots, officers hurt and damage to infrastructure – this isn't a football match, it is a breakdown of order accompanied by severe violence.”

Pyrotechnics Lead to Casualties

The police noted how Numerous smoke bombs as well as flares were thrown, injuring 12 members of the public along with three police officers.”

Forces at the scene detained nine individuals and took in 16 others for further investigation.

Team Response Confirms Postponement

A Maccabi statement read: After the police’s decision, it was determined that the Tel Aviv derby would not be held tonight.”

Background: Recent Restriction on Team Fans

This incident came following fans of Maccabi were informed recently they would not be allowed to attend an upcoming European match against Aston Villa in the UK.

The city's security panel – made up of community representatives, local police, plus event organisers – said the decision was taken because of an elevated threat of unrest based on “recent information and previous incidents”.

Official Reaction to the Decision

This move sparked political uproar, including the prime minister, the Prime Minister, condemning the move and several figures urging for the restriction to be lifted.

“It is the wrong decision. We will not accept discrimination in our communities,” he stated. “The duty of the police is to guarantee every supporter can watch the game, free from fear of unrest or threats.”

Ayoub Khan, the representative for Perry Barr, reaffirmed his stance to Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters traveling via a message online: Disgraceful all those shameful officials as well as news anchors that conflated this issue!”

“It was never a religious matter but all to do about hooligans! Such individuals are unwelcome in my constituency!”