Celtic Supporters Demand Scrapping of £2m Israeli Transfer Amid Owner's Military Drone Links
Celtic FC is facing intense backlash from its passionate fanbase over a reported £2 million deal to sign young Ivorian winger Jocelin Ta Bi from Maccabi Netanya in Israel.
Many supporters and advocacy groups argue that proceeding with the transfer would contradict the club's long-standing values, particularly given the Israeli club's ownership connections to defense firms involved in military technology.
The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI) has publicly urged Celtic to abandon the move, stating that Israeli football clubs cannot be seen as apolitical entities during the current conflict in Gaza.
Celtic fans have a well-documented history of showing solidarity with Palestine, often displaying flags and banners at matches – actions that have previously led to UEFA fines but earned widespread admiration for their principled stance.
A key point of contention is Maccabi Netanya's ownership by Aliya Capital Partners. The firm's leadership has significant involvement with XTEND, an Israeli company specializing in drones supplied to the military.
Activists claim this creates an indirect link that makes any financial deal unacceptable, especially as global calls grow for boycotts in support of Palestinian rights.
On social media and fan forums, reactions have been fierce. Some supporters accuse the board of ignoring the club's ethos, with comments like "This would betray everything Celtic stands for" and threats to withhold support if the transfer goes ahead.
One fan wrote: "Spend our money elsewhere – not in a way that funds institutions tied to conflict."
Groups like Scottish Sport for Palestine have echoed these sentiments, describing the potential deal as an "insult" to the club's roots in supporting marginalized communities, drawing parallels between Irish and Palestinian experiences.
Ta Bi, a 20-year-old talent currently on loan at another Israeli club, has been praised for his potential, but many fans say his arrival under these circumstances would make him unwelcome.
Additional concerns include reports of rising racist incidents among some Israeli football supporters, with Maccabi Netanya cited in studies for problematic fan behavior.
A fan-led petition is circulating rapidly, calling on the board to prioritize ethical considerations over the transfer.
As of now, Celtic FC has remained silent on the controversy and has not responded to requests for comment.
For a club born from charity and solidarity with Irish immigrants facing hardship, this debate strikes at the heart of what many believe Celtic represents – a beacon of justice in football. Supporters hope the board listens before finalizing any deal.
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