Turkish club urges fans not to stir up troubles against Israeli guests
AP, Wednesday 14 Sep 2011
Besiktas worried of their home match against Maccabi Tel Aviv in Europa League


Turkish club Besiktas is urging fans not to stir up trouble ahead of Thursday’s Europa League game against Maccabi Tel Aviv, saying police are taking measures to counter protests—including plans to invade the pitch.

Tensions between the two countries have deepened after Israel refused to apologize for a raid on a Gaza-bound ship last year that killed nine activists.

Israel has expressed regret but says its troops acted in self-defense, prompting Turkey to downgrade its relations with Tel Aviv.

In a statement Wednesday, Besiktas asked fans to show “hospitality” to Maccabi, warning the Turkish club could face punishment from UEFA for any unruly behavior.

Besiktas also said police are taking measures to thwart protests being organized on social networking sites.

https://english.ahram.org.eg/News/21214.aspx