Udine on high alert for Italy's soccer match against Israel

Italy is hosting a competitive soccer match against Israel in Udine on October 14, 2024, amidst heightened security due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This match marks the first time Israel's national team is playing outside of neutral Hungary since the Israel-Hamas war began on October 7, 2023. Previously, Israel played in Kosovo and Andorra, with all subsequent matches held in Hungary due to security concerns from other nations. The Italian coach, Luciano Spalletti, expressed hopes that the match would promote peace and encourage more people to oppose war, highlighting that many Israelis share this sentiment. The match is taking place in a tense atmosphere, with fewer than 12,000 tickets sold for a stadium that can hold 25,000, reflecting the apprehension surrounding the event. Security measures are stringent, with areas around the Stadio Friuli designated as a 'Red Zone' and only ticket holders allowed access. Fans are advised to arrive early due to rigorous security checks, and hundreds of additional police officers have been deployed to ensure safety. In the city center, a pro-Palestine demonstration is scheduled for the afternoon, just hours before the match, with organizers expecting around 4,000 participants. This situation underscores the complex and sensitive backdrop against which the match is being played, highlighting the intersection of sports and global political issues.