Protestors Storm EU Soccer Body Over Matches in Israel

By JTA January 25, 2013

Dozens of activists occupied the reception of the UEFA European soccer association in Nyon, Switzerland, to protest Israel’s hosting of a championship.

About 40 protesters carrying banners and placards, some critical of UEFA President Michel Platini, chanted slogans at the offices on Jan. 25, according to the Associated Press.

The protesters had come to demonstrate against plans to hold the European Under-21 Championship in Israel in June.

Last year, Platini resisted calls from Jibril Rajoub, head of the Palestinian football association, to strip Israel of hosting rights.

The eight-team tournament is scheduled to be played from June 5-18 in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Netanya and Petah Tikva.

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