Israeli officials have warned Celtic fans against flying Palestine flags during their Champions League match with Hapoel Be’er Sheva. Betting outlets like sboth have Celtic down as strong favourites to progress.
Brendan Rodgers’ side were drawn against the Israeli Zionist champions in the play-off round and will travel to Beersheba which is just 25 miles away from the besieged Gaza Strip.
Celtic were fined £16,000 by UEFA two years ago after Palestinian symbols, which breached their rules against political statements were spotted at a match against Icelandic side KR Reykjavik.
Israeli authorities have advised that Hoops supporters avoid flying flags in an area which is on high alert.
A spokeswoman for the Israeli Embassy in London said: “I don’t think it would be allowed.
“Anyway, I don’t see what the point is if you are Scottish and you want to fly a Palestinian flag. What’s the point?”
The Foreign Office advises against travelling to Gaza which has been hit with non-stop besieging and bombardment from the occupying Israeli forces.
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The advice states: “The security situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories is fast moving, tense and unpredictable.
“There are ongoing violent incidents in Israel and the West Bank, including Tel Aviv, East Jerusalem and the Old City (particularly in the Damascus Gate area).
“There have been numerous stabbing, shooting, arson and stone throwing attacks on people and vehicles, as well as violent clashes between protesters and Israeli security forces.
“There’s a risk that tourists or bystanders could be caught up in any incident. You should be vigilant at all times.”
