Very positive in addition to the sporting outcome: According to the police, the game remained relatively uneventful. Fans set off pyrotechnics in a beer garden and should expect a report, said a spokeswoman. Banners were attached to an Israeli travel agency in the city that said, among other things, “Relocated to Palestine” and “Closed immediately.”
In addition, the slogan “Free Gaza” was sprayed on buildings in various places in the city. Investigations have been initiated, including for damage to property and incitement to hatred. Even without any concrete knowledge of the threat, the police and VfB Stuttgart had prepared intensively for the Europa League game against Israel’s football club.
The Stuttgart officials were supported in the large-scale operation by emergency services from Baden-Württemberg and the federal territory. The pre-Christmas period and the geopolitical situation surrounding the Middle East conflict required additional attention from the security authorities, the police said. Anti-Semitism should not be given any space.