In Munich, during the Champions League final, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) fans exhibited a banner urging an end to the conflict in Gaza. This public display occurred shortly after Achraf Hakimi, a former Inter Milan player, initiated the scoring in PSG’s decisive 5-0 victory. Among the crowd, there were also PSG supporters waving Palestinian scarves and flags, underscoring their consistent position against the ongoing conflict in the region.
PSG fans have a history of activism; earlier, they showcased a large “Free Palestine” banner in a match against Atlético Madrid in November. These demonstrations of support resonate deeply with PSG’s fanbase, though they may stir unease with local German authorities. Munich’s city hall prominently displays an Israeli flag alongside a Ukrainian one, reflecting Germany’s strong support for Israel, rooted in historical alliances.
Given UEFA’s strict regulations against using sports platforms for political or provocative messages, PSG might face repercussions for this latest incident. UEFA’s rules strictly prohibit gestures, words, or objects conveying political, ideological, or religious messages during events. Teams typically face a financial penalty of 10,000 euros (approximately $10,700) for a first-time offense involving such banners or actions.
The broader backdrop of these expressions is the severe humanitarian situation in Gaza. Israel’s blockade, spanning nearly three months, has pushed Gaza’s inhabitants—over two million—to near starvation levels. Though there has been a slight increase in aid reaching the area recently, humanitarian organizations stress that it remains insufficient. The United Nations World Food Program has warned of significant hunger threats facing the population.
The conflict exacerbated when Hamas initiated an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking 250 hostages. In retaliation, Israeli military actions have led to over 54,000 deaths in Gaza, predominantly involving women and children, according to figures from Gaza’s Health Ministry. The ministry’s casualty assessments, however, do not differentiate between militants and non-combatants.