Maccabi Tel Aviv's chief executive has condemned 'blatant falsehoods' about the club's supporters ahead of Thursday's Europa League clash with Aston Villa.
Jack Angelides argued that misinformation and hate have fuelled tensions before the match, which will take place without away fans following a ban imposed by Birmingham's Safety Advisory Group.
More than 700 police officers will be deployed for the high-risk fixture, with protests expected from both pro-Israeli and pro-Palestinian groups outside Villa Park.
The ground has also been declared a no-fly zone for drones, and mounted units, dogs and protest liaison officers will be on duty throughout.