Israeli football supporters and Dutch youth clashed near Amsterdam Central station in Amsterdam, Netherlands, causing concern for both Israeli and Dutch officials. The Israeli government announced that they would be sending two planes to the Netherlands to rescue citizens who were injured during the violence, which was described as antisemitic attacks.
According to the Israeli Foreign Ministry, at least 10 Israeli citizens were injured, and two others were reported missing. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed the sending of the rescue planes and stated that he had spoken with Prime Minister Dick Schoof of the Netherlands regarding the situation. Schoof condemned the antisemitic attacks as completely unacceptable and assured that the perpetrators would be arrested and prosecuted.
Video footage of the violent clashes circulated on social media, showing a group of men attacking someone near the city centre. Dutch police reported making 57 arrests in connection with the unrest, some of which occurred near the Johan Cruyff Arena where Ajax was playing against Maccabi Tel Aviv. The clashes began on Thursday in areas where supporters of both teams had gathered.
Prior to the game, Maccabi supporters gathered in Amsterdam’s centre, leading to tense moments that eventually calmed down. Ten individuals were arrested before the game for disrupting public order. Another confrontation took place at a square near the stadium, where protesters clashed with military police after attempting to make their way to the stadium. Around 30 people were arrested in that incident for disrupting public order and setting off fireworks at the police.
Israel’s President Isaac Herzog referred to the clashes as an antisemitic pogrom on social media, expressing shock at the events. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that the Israeli Foreign Ministry was collaborating with Dutch authorities to address the violence and urged those in need of assistance to contact the authorities.
The situation in Amsterdam highlights the ongoing issue of antisemitism and violence at football matches, emphasizing the need for increased security measures and efforts to combat such behavior. Both Israeli and Dutch officials have condemned the attacks and are working together to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. It is essential for authorities to address these incidents promptly to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
