Celtic condemn Green Brigade Palestine banner as club distance themselves from 'inappropriate' message

Celtic have condemned a banner unveiled by leading fan group the Green Brigade at the weekend.

The North Curve section of Celtic Park was draped with a display prior to the 3-1 win over Kilmarnock that read: "Free Palestine, victory to the resistance," in a move that drew the ire of former player and Israeli Nir Bitton on social media. It comes amid rising tensions in the Gaza region with the death toll mounting in recent days due to ongoing conflict. Now, the Parkhead club have issued a statement on the banner that was unveiled.

Celtic say political messages and banners are 'not welcome' and that it is 'inappropriate' for the stadium to be used for such messaging. A club 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."