Serbian Police Investigated Alleged Attack on Israeli Journalist

Serbian police reportedly investigated an alleged physical altercation involving an Israeli journalist during a press conference held by the Irish national football team in Bačka Topola, Serbia. Paul Rowan, a reporter for The Sunday Times, stated that two Serbian officers arrived at the stadium to look into claims that Moti Pashketsky, a reporter for Sport 5, was assaulted. According to Rowan, the stadium manager informed him that authorities would not pursue the matter further after reviewing video footage, adding that the "affected party" was not present.

The incident occurred after the press conference for the Irish team's upcoming match against Israel took an unusual turn. Initially, a question from Liat Biton, a reporter for ONE, about a "Flydubai" plane incident was blocked. Subsequently, Pashketsky took the microphone to ask the coach about allegations of racist remarks made by Irish players during a previous match. Officials from the Irish Football Association denied these claims. During the exchange, a team staff member attempted to take the microphone from Pashketsky, leading to an escalation. Pashketsky later asserted that the staff member forcefully grabbed his arms while trying to take the microphone, stating he asked the individual not to touch him and emphasized his intention to do his job.

Following the disruption, the press conference was moved to a separate room where the coach continued to speak exclusively with Irish journalists. Later, at the Israeli team's press conference, a remark was made by the Football Association: "We will start with questions from Israeli journalists; they did not get many opportunities to ask questions at the Irish press conference." The Israeli FA also indicated that a complaint to UEFA regarding the alleged racist remarks was being considered.