The Palestinian flag has become one of the most visible, and most targeted, symbols at World Cup games held in the United States.
Several supporters carrying them at matches have told Middle East Eye that they have been stopped by security as they entered venues and instructed to either remove them or risk having them confiscated, despite Fifa regulations allowing national flags inside stadiums.
The incidents have unfolded alongside widespread displays of solidarity from supporters of Arab teams, with Palestinian flags appearing throughout the stands even though Palestine is not competing in the tournament.
For many pro-Palestine activists, the confrontations reflect what they describe as growing scrutiny of Palestinian identity in public spaces, even as support for the Palestinian cause has become increasingly visible.
As the tournament heads towards Sunday's final, it remains unclear whether authorities will allow Palestinian flags to be on display at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. It's also unclear whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is wanted for war crimes committed in Gaza, will attend.
