International demonstrations against Israel Massacre in GAZA
News from David Cup Official WebSite.
ITF statement about the Sweden/Israel 1st round tie
The ITF has been informed that, for security reasons, the local
government in Malmo has advised the Swedish Tennis Association that the
upcoming Davis Cup by BNP Paribas first round tie between Sweden and
Israel must be played behind closed doors.
ITF President Francesco Ricci Bitti said:
“The
security plan already submitted by the Malmo police and the efforts of
the two tennis associations would be enough to allow the tie to take
place under normal circumstances. Therefore we do not agree with the
decision by the Malmo authorities to exclude the public, and even at
this late date, maintain our request that the decision not to allow
spectators be reconsidered."
“However for the integrity of the
competition it is most important for the tie to go ahead, for both
teams to be allowed to compete, and for the Swedish Tennis Association
to retain the choice of ground.
“Given these exceptional
circumstances, this subject will be discussed at the next meeting of
the Davis Cup Committee for any further action to be taken to prevent
this situation happening in future.”
Protesters tried to break through police barricades
around the Baltic Hall arena
From BBC News
Dozens of anti-Israel demonstrators have clashed
with Swedish police in Malmo as they sought to disrupt a tennis match
between Sweden and Israel.
At least five rock-throwing protesters were held in the southern city, police say. There were no reports of injuries.
The demonstrators, mostly youths, tried to storm an arena where the Sweden-Israel Davis Cup match was being held.
They chanted slogans condemning Israel's recent offensive in Gaza and urged support for the Palestinians.
Swedish police said the clashes near the Baltic
Hall arena began soon after thousands of people attended the peaceful
Stop the Match rally in central Malmo.
Some protesters then tried to break through police barricades set up around the sports complex, police said.
They hurled stones, firecrackers and bottles of paint at police vans, but were dispersed by hundreds of riot police.
Violence reportedly continued in other parts of the city.
Only about 300 specially-chosen guests were allowed to watch the
doubles match, because Malmo officials said they could not guarantee
security at the venue.
Israeli player Andy Ram said it was a "stupid decision" to play the tie behind closed doors.
"Playing without a crowd is like playing a practice match," he said.
Kindly Regards
Click on the Banner Philoxenia
Georgios Paraskevopoulos