Police Ban Smoke Bombs for Tel Aviv Derby Amid Fan Outrage

Ahead of the highly anticipated Tel Aviv derby between Maccabi and Hapoel on Monday, the Maccabi Tel Aviv fan organization, "Maccabi Panatics," criticized the Israel Police on Friday for prohibiting the use of smoke bombs. The fan group accused the police of repeatedly targeting football supporters and disrespecting their efforts.

"The Israel Police, for the umpteenth time, proves that the only thing it knows how to do is fight and harm football fans," the organization stated. "Ahead of the upcoming derby, it has decided to start its usual circus and not approve smoke bombs. This is a disregard for an entire organization that invested and worked long nights, with money you (the fans) donated, and especially for the best show in the city of Tel Aviv."

The "Maccabi Panatics" vowed not to let the police ruin the excitement, declaring, "We will not let them ruin our madness and excitement! The strongest display will be a Bloomfield Stadium entirely in strong yellow, pushing Maccabi all the way to victory! Enjoy the holiday and prepare yourselves for war! Happy New Year Maccabi Tel Aviv!"

The match is not only a heated derby but also a top-of-the-table clash, with Maccabi currently in first place with a perfect nine points from nine, followed by Hapoel in second with seven points after three rounds.