Banners and flags in support of Hamas’ violence against Israel on display at a Celtics match on Saturday. Photo: Twitter

The Celtic professional soccer team from Scotland has denounced fans who waved flags and banners in solidarity with the Palestinians and Hamas terror group during a Scottish Premiership match on Saturday, the same day that Hamas launched a large-scale attack against Israel and murdered hundreds of civilians.

Celtic FC fans, who call themselves the Green Brigade, waved banners that said “Free Palestine” and “Victory to the resistance,” and held up Palestinian and Hamas flags at the weekend match against Kilmarnock at Celtic Park in Glasgow, Scotland.

Green Brigade once again at the political forefront, with “Free Palestine” & “Victory to the Resistance” banners + Hamas Flag on display at the Celtic – Kilmarnock game today.

Sentiments that many on the left agree with but will not publicly declare. pic.twitter.com/IJH7vjhcLo

— The Fast Lovin’ Sin-Soaked Heathen (@fast_sin) October 7, 2023

Celtic FC said in a statement that the signs at Saturday’s game “do not represent the views of Celtic Football Club and we disassociate ourselves from them.”

“Celtic is a football club and not a political organization,” the team added. “One of our core values from inception is to be open to all regardless of race, color, 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.”

The club called on supporters to unite in backing their players while  “respecting the rights and beliefs of others, particularly those whose lives are affected by violence and hatred.”