OSLO, Norway — Norway beat Israel 5-0 in a World Cup qualifier soccer match in Oslo on Saturday that was overshadowed by anti-Israel, pro-Palestinian protests inside and outside the stadium held by local fans opposed to Israel’s participation in the tournament due to the war against Hamas in Gaza.

There was a heavy security response, including the use of tear gas, in what The Guardian called the “most high-security sports event in Norway since the Winter Olympics in 1994.”

The report said that “anti-terror measures were in place throughout Oslo,” police imposed a no-fly zone over the stadium, and supporters from both nations were barred from sitting in seats close to the pitch.

Ahead of the game, hundreds of pro-Palestinian supporters gathered to protest outside the Norwegian parliament, with many wearing the jerseys of the Palestinian national team.

“The match should not have been played. If Russia is expelled, then Israel should be expelled as well,” claimed Norway fan Johan, who was dressed in a Palestine jersey.

Marching toward Ullevaal Stadium with Palestinian flags and flares, the protesters gathered outside, continuing until kickoff as nearby buildings displayed pro-Palestinian banners hanging from balconies.

Security was tight around the stadium, with police closing several entrances hours before the match started, conducting bag searches, and reducing the number of........

© The Times of Israel