Premier League observes silence at each game over the weekend as players wear black armbands, bans Israel and Palestine flags

Fans did not shy away from raising the banner during the Merseyside derby.

Premier League observes silence at each game over the weekend as players wear black armbands, bans Israel and Palestine flags

Premier League players and coaches to wear black armband (via Sporting News)

The Premier League will express support for the Middle East by having all players, managers, and officials wear black armbands. Before kick-off, they will also observe a one-minute silence to promote global unity and peace.

Furthermore, the governing body of the league clarified that both the Israel as well as the Palestine flags are banned. So, it would not allow players and fans to show any form of expression with flags while the games are played.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pVR9HAiRXY

This came to light after many fans called out the Premier League preferring to remain non-political on the situation amidst the violence against innocent people. 

We hope for peace, and our heartfelt sympathies are with the victims, their families, and the communities impacted.
Premier League’s statement

Following nationwide protests, tension has arisen in the league’s management regarding how to address the situation.

Protest flags were even displayed at Anfield during the Liverpool vs. Everton Merseyside derby. The league strives to maintain a safe environment for every player and fans. But it remains uncertain how this decision will be received in the world of football.

“SAVE GAZA,” Fans did not shy away from raising the banner during the Merseyside derby

The Premier League banned Israel and Palestine flags and banners at matches this weekend. It was aimed to prevent potential stadium incidents amid the ongoing unrest in the Middle East. Despite this ban, multiple Palestinian flags were still displayed by fans during the Merseyside derby between Liverpool and Everton at Anfield.

Liverpool and Everton players in action, Fans with a SAVE GAZA banner
Liverpool and Everton players in action (L) Fans with a ‘SAVE GAZA’ banner(R). (Via Premier League)

The situation in the Middle East has gone beyond conflict or war, as many have called for ‘humanity to unite’ against what is unfolding in Gaza. Even the Reds’ Egyptian winger Mohamed Salah released a video message leading up to the game on Saturday. In his video message, he urged the world leaders to take a strong step against the ‘massacres and violence in Gaza’.

Now, this led to a minute’s silence before the Derby match at Anfield to pay respect to the victims. But as the kick-off whistle blew, many fans pulled out the banners and Palestinian flags to send a message.

One of the banners even read, “For God’s sake save Gaza.” As of now, there have been no actions taken against this show of revolt from the Liverpool fans to the initial orders from the league.

Meanwhile, the Merseyside derby was overall a dull spectacle for fans from both sides. But Mo Salah’s brace ensured that Liverpool earned the bragging rights. The final score read, Liverpool 2 – 0 Everton.

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