Battle Diamonds Forum Urges Fans to End Firework Use Ahead of Tel Aviv Derby

Ahead of the Toto Cup final derby match between Maccabi and Hapoel Tel Aviv, the Battle Diamonds Forum, an organization representing combat veterans, has issued a critical appeal to fans to cease the use of firecrackers and fireworks. The forum, part of the "Diamonds for Life" association, is urging fans to refrain from using pyrotechnics within Bloomfield Stadium, citing the severe impact on combat soldiers suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The organization highlighted that sudden loud noises can trigger anxiety attacks and flashbacks, hindering veterans' ability to enjoy the game and feel safe.

The forum explained that for many veterans, especially those returning from the "Swords of Iron" war, attending matches offers a sense of belonging and a vital return to routine. However, the sound of improvised explosives can instantly bring back combat memories. The Battle Diamonds Forum has been working with the league management to make stadiums more accessible for these soldiers, including providing advance warnings and appointing liaisons. They emphasize that their goal is not to stifle fan culture but to differentiate between visual displays and deafening explosions.

"The derby is a football celebration, and it should be for everyone," stated Eitan Aliyev from the Battle Diamonds Forum. "We, as combat veterans, sit in the most passionate stands. Our injuries aren't always visible, and one firecracker sound can instantly send us back to the battlefield. Just as we learned to forgo fireworks on Independence Day, it's time to do the same in the stadiums. We can create an electric atmosphere without endangering those who have already paid a heavy price for the country."

In parallel to the veterans' plea, the police are preparing for a large-scale security operation, deploying 1,000 officers and security guards to Bloomfield Stadium and surrounding streets. This includes 600 private security personnel and 400 police officers. The league management stated that the security costs for this game are the highest in Israeli football history, and the league is expected to incur a significant financial loss due to the stringent requirements. The complexity is amplified by the fact that the Toto Cup final has no designated home team, leading to an equal half-and-half stadium allocation, creating two large, volatile fan bases within the same venue.

To prevent communication network failures and bottlenecks at entrances, special mobile antennas will be erected around the stadium. The police have set a firm red line, imposing a complete ban on banners and hanging decorations by fan organizations from both sides. The Tel Aviv district fears that large banners could be used to conceal weapons and fireworks, and to facilitate the throwing of flares onto the field.