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

Celtic condemn Green Brigade banners in support of Palestine

Celtic have moved to condemn the Green Brigade's banners in support of Palestine at the weekend.

On Saturday the supporter group unveiled a large display prior to the Premiership encounter with Kilmarnock. 

Surrounded by Palestinian flags, which were on show at points through the match, the banners 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.

Now, the club has hit out at those wishing to 'use Celtic Park as a vehicle for such messages'.

A strongly-worded statement reads: "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."

Former Celtic player Nir Bitton responded to the Green Brigade's banners on Saturday evening.

The Israeli accused the group of being 'brainwashed' as he slammed the Palestine propaganda on display. 

He wrote on social media: "Shame on you! Yes, free Gaza from Hamas, not from Israel! Support terror organisation that's proudly celebrating the slaughtering of families is absolutely crazy! Embarrassing.

"Most of you don't even know where Israel is. You have zero clue about this conflict and still act like you know everything."

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