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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Ewan Paton

Liel Abada 'meets' Celtic board over Green Brigade's Palestine display

Liel Abada has held discussions with the Celtic hierarchy over the Green Brigade's display backing Palestine at the weekend as well as becoming the target of social media abuse from his home country, according to a report.

The supporter group unveiled a banner in support of the country during the Hoops' Premiership game against Kilmarnock on Saturday.

Surrounded by Palestinian flags, which were on show at points during the afternoon, the display read: "Free Palestine. Victory To The Resistance!"

The show of support came on the weekend that Hamas, designated as a terrorist group by many Western countries including the UK, launched an attack on Israel from occupied Gaza which killed hundreds of civilians.

Sections of the Celtic fanbase have expressed their backing of Palestine in the past, but they have come under intense scrutiny this time around amid the ongoing conflict.

Now, according to Football Scotland, Israel international Abada has spoken to the club's board regarding the Green Brigade's display.

The 22-year-old is believed to have been offered support by the Celtic hierarchy over the matter. He has also been targetted for abuse on social media sites.

The report claims the Israeli's talks with Parkhead boardroom members took place on Monday and that the injured winger missed James Forrest's testimonial dinner.

He has now taken to social media to address the conflict involving his homeland. 

Abada wrote on his Instagram story: "It is difficult to explain the range of emotions. I feel at the moment we woke up to one of the darkest days in the history of my country.

"I would like to thank everybody sending me supportive messages on social media over the last couple of days. It is not taken for granted.

"My heart goes out to all the families who lost their loved ones. Praying for more peaceful days. Love you all."

Celtic released a statement condemning the banner last night.

The statement read: "Banners displayed in a section of Celtic Park prior to Saturday's game do not represent the views of Celtic Football Club and we disassociate ourselves from them. We condemn the display of such messages at Celtic Park.

"Celtic is a football club and not a political organisation. One of our core values from inception is to be open to all regardless of race, colour, politics or creed.

"That is why the Club has always made clear that political messages and banners are not welcome at Celtic Park, or any match involving Celtic. At a time of loss and suffering for many, it is entirely inappropriate for any group of individuals to use Celtic Park as a vehicle for such messages. We call on all supporters, regardless of their personal views, to unite in backing our players and the Club while respecting the rights and beliefs of others; particularly those whose lives are affected by violence and hatred."

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