Israeli soccer fans were attacked in Amsterdam, prompting Dutch authorities to condemn the incidents as antisemitic attacks on Israeli citizens.
Violent Incidents After Europa League Match
Dutch police are investigating multiple violent incidents that occurred after the Europa League match between Israel’s Maccabi Tel Aviv and Dutch team Ajax on Thursday night. Authorities reported that five people were hospitalized, and 62 individuals were arrested.
According to Israel’s embassy in the United States, hundreds of Maccabi fans were attacked in Amsterdam. At least 10 Israeli citizens were injured, as reported by Israel’s foreign ministry.
Videos shared by the Israeli embassy showed scenes of violence against Maccabi fans, including one man being kicked while on the ground and another being struck while the attacker shouted, “free Palestine.” CNN has not independently verified these videos.
Rising Tensions Before the Game
Tensions were already high before the match, with videos showing Maccabi fans chanting anti-Arab slurs, praising Israeli military actions, and tearing down Palestinian flags from buildings.
Amsterdam police increased their presence in the city center due to the rising tensions. Officers prevented a confrontation between a group of taxi drivers and visitors from a nearby casino. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators also attempted to reach the Johan Cruyff Stadium, despite being prohibited from protesting there.
Aftermath and Official Responses
Police stated that fans left the stadium without incident after Ajax won the game 5-0, but there were reports of clashes in the city center later that night.
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof condemned the antisemitic attacks, stating he had spoken to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to ensure that the perpetrators would be prosecuted. Schoof added that the situation in Amsterdam was now calm.
Netanyahu emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of Israelis in the Netherlands and requested increased security for the Jewish community. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also condemned anti-Arab chants and attacks on Palestinian symbols, calling on Dutch authorities to protect Palestinians and Arabs in the Netherlands.
Israeli Officials’ Response
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar advised Israelis in Amsterdam to stay in their hotels and announced plans to visit the Netherlands. Sa’ar described the attacks as “barbaric and antisemitic” and a warning for Europe and the world. He also requested assistance from Dutch authorities to arrange safe transport for Israelis to the airport.
In a separate statement, Netanyahu called on Dutch authorities to act firmly against the rioters and ensure the safety of Israeli citizens. Initially, he announced plans to send rescue planes, but later clarified that they would focus on commercial flight arrangements to help citizens return safely.
Concerns About Soccer-Related Violence
Violence and hooliganism have long been issues in European soccer. Following this incident, some in France called for the upcoming match between the French and Israeli national teams to be relocated. However, French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau rejected this idea, stating that France would not back down in the face of threats of violence and antisemitism.
In related news, UEFA announced that a Europa League match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Turkish team Beşiktaş in November would be moved to a neutral venue at the request of Turkish authorities.