Israeli Football League Management Condemns State's Failure to Ensure Match Security

Following violent incidents after the matches between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem, as well as Bnei Sakhnin and Maccabi Netanya, the Israeli Football League Management issued a sharp letter to the State Attorney on August 27, 2026. The letter criticized the police and prosecution for their handling of football-related violence, questioning how such events continue to occur without swift and deterrent criminal responses.

The management highlighted that although arrests are made, suspects are often released and legal proceedings are delayed, with indictments not filed promptly and punishments failing to deter offenders. They expressed a strong sense of abandonment felt by football fans, demanding explanations for the state's failure to prosecute lawbreakers effectively and questioning how football matches can be held securely under these conditions.

The letter called for immediate and decisive action from all law enforcement agencies against illegal activities surrounding football and urged a tough stance on offenders. Additionally, the management requested an urgent meeting with relevant authorities to discuss measures to eradicate violence in football stadiums.