Approximately 1,000 French law enforcement officers will establish a security perimeter around Israel's opening match with Mali during the Olympic Games held in Paris due to concerns over potential unrest and protests following the event.
The substantial police presence is considered essential because of anticipated demonstrations outside Parc des Princes as well as within the stadium on Wednesday evening when both teams are scheduled to play.
Written by: France's Interior Minister, Gérald Darmanin
This situation marks a significant security challenge for the Games during a period marked by conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Darmanin highlighted that all sports competitions have individualized security plans; however, he acknowledged that this particular match at Parc des Princes will include enhanced security measures, including an anti-terror perimeter. He emphasized that tonight's game would be safeguarded by approximately 1,00 Written by: The Israeli athletes participating in the Paris Games
Regardless of external events or potential demonstrations against Israel's presence at the Olympics, the players and their coach remain focused on the competition. They expressed readiness and enthusiasm for representing their country with confidence.
Israeli Olympic team spokesperson emphasized that the athletes are there to compete in sports rather than engage in political matters.
A French law enforcement source shared concerns about possible unrest around the stadium, suggesting potential chants of dissent from spectators post-game start time at 8pm local time.
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