Israeli Ultras: Hymn Defiers and Protestors
Okay, here’s a breakdown of teh key facts from the provided text, serving as a “hard stop” self-check. This summarizes what we know based solely on the article:
1. The Incident:
During the italian national hymn at a recent match, a group of Italian fans turned their backs.
They held signs with the vague word “stop” on them.
This behavior is not new; they did the same thing at a match in Budapest a year prior.
2. Who are these fans?
They are identified (by a journalist) as “Ultras Italia,” though this name is outdated.
They are the core group of organized supporters who follow the Italian national team.
They have not historically expressed pro-Palestine views, nor participated in campaigns like “Show Israel the Red Card.”
3. History & Ideology:
The group originated in the post-Euro 2000 period, formed by fans from various Italian clubs with extreme right-wing ideologies.
They were founded in Verona, with initial participation from ultras of Hellas Verona, Trieste, Udinese, Treviso, Lazio, and Rome.
in 2002, they were identified as neo-fascist groups aiming to create an alliance between right-wing groups and attack left-wing fans.
They have a history of politically charged actions:
Fascist salutes during the Israeli hymn in 2016 (some individuals were identified as Bari ultras and faced legal consequences).
Banner stating ”No to the multi-ethnic national team.”
Chants like “In Italy only Italians” and anti-“oriundi” (naturalized citizens) slogans.
They have absorbed another group called “Viking Italia.”
4. Previous Incidents:
April 25, 2001, in Perugia: tensions with left-wing fans (“Red Army” and “Switches”). November 17, 2010, in Klagenfurt: racist abuse towards Balotelli and anti-“oriundi” slogans.
In essence,the article suggests the recent protest during the hymn was likely carried out by a group with a history of right-wing extremism and provocative behavior,despite the current interpretation of the protest being linked to pro-Palestine sentiments. The article does not confirm a direct link to the Palestine issue, but notes the perception among some observers.
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