Demonstrators gave a clear message during Saturday’s rugby match between Malta and Israel, holding up red cards in protest against the Israeli national team’s participation.

Around 40 activists from various local groups—including Moviment Graffitti, Ġustizzja għall-Palestina, Watermelon Warriors, Lebanese Advocates, and Youth for Palestine—gathered at the match to voice their opposition.

As the Israeli national anthem played, protestors raised red cards in unison, referencing Rugby Union’s rule where a red card signifies serious, deliberate foul play.

The demonstrators waved Palestinian flags—smuggled in despite strict security—and chanted slogans such as “Free, free Palestine,” “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,” and “Boycott Israel.” The protest took place under tight police surveillance.

In a statement, Moviment Graffitti said that sport is not apolitical. “National teams represent the state and are used to build legitimacy on the global stage,” the group said, drawing parallels to Russia’s suspension from European sporting bodies after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

They called for similar measures to be taken against Israel due to its ongoing war in Gaza.

The activists accused Israel of engaging in “sports-washing”—using international sport to distract from its treatment of Palestinians.

They highlighted the stark contrast between the freedoms enjoyed by Israeli athletes and the obstacles faced by Palestinian sportspeople, including travel bans, imprisonment, and even death.

The protest coincided with reports from Gaza that an Israeli airstrike on a school sheltering displaced civilians had killed at least 31 people, including children.

Gaza’s civil defence spokesperson said women, children, and a pregnant woman expecting twins were among the victims.

Moviment Graffitti concluded by accusing Western governments of enabling Israel’s actions, stating that the only ethical stance is to isolate Israel from global institutions, including sports organisations.

#MaltaDaily

Transport Minister Chris Bonett spoke at Deloitte’s annual aviation conference, held under the theme ‘Gaining from the boom: Making the most of a thriving market’.

The event brought together local and international stakeholders as Malta’s aviation sector continues to see rapid growth.

Bonett said Malta has positioned itself as a key aviation hub with a strong focus on innovation, safety, and sustainability. He described aviation as a vital pillar of Malta’s economy, with recent investments creating more quality jobs.

Malta’s aircraft register now exceeds 900 aircraft—double the number from five years ago—thanks to a solid regulatory framework and attractive incentives.

The country’s high safety and operational standards have made it a top choice for airlines, leasing firms, and private owners.

Significant developments, including airport upgrades, improved air traffic systems, and expanded MRO facilities, are boosting Malta’s aviation ecosystem and attracting foreign investment.

The conference also featured expert discussions on how Malta can sustain momentum in this thriving sector.

#MaltaDaily

A Żurrieq jeweller who was savagely attacked and left for dead during a robbery has passed away.

67-year-old Joseph Carabott, a husband and father, suffered severe brain damage following the August 2023 assault and never recovered.

His nephew, Keith Carabott, announced the news on social media on Saturday morning, writing: “Uncle, you are now resting after the year and six months of misery they caused you.

They left you in a bed with no strength and no words — we will never forget.”

Joseph was discovered by his children lying in a pool of blood with his hands tied inside his jewellery shop.

They had gone looking for him after he failed to show up for a tennis match with his wife.

His son later testified that the injuries left his father in a condition “worse than death.”

Three individuals were arrested and charged in connection with the robbery and assault. One of them pleaded guilty and received a 28-year sentence.

She later testified against the other two, recounting how they violently beat Carabott, kicking him in the head and ribs when he tried to resist.

The remaining two accused have pleaded not guilty, and court proceedings are ongoing.

#MaltaDaily