Tensions flared in Amsterdam Thursday night as violent clashes erupted following the Europa League match between Ajax and Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv. Israeli supporters were targeted in several incidents that left some injured, according to a statement from Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema. The violence has drawn condemnation from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who called it a “severely violent incident against Israeli citizens.”
[The video in Amsterdam with Israel fans]
The unrest followed Ajax’s 5-0 victory over Maccabi Tel Aviv at the Johan Cruyff Arena. As fans gathered in various parts of Amsterdam, confrontations ensued. Amsterdam police reported that 57 arrests were made, citing incidents that occurred from the Dam Square area to the end of the match. Authorities were deployed to prevent escalations between Israeli fans and pro-Palestinian demonstrators, who had gathered on Anton de Komplein after their initial protest location near the stadium was moved.
Reports indicate that the situation grew increasingly volatile in the early hours as Maccabi fans, who traveled by metro to the city center, were met with physical aggression, including objects being thrown and property damage. Police intervened and accompanied the Israeli fans back to their hotels.
JOINT STATEMENT
In a joint statement, Amsterdam’s leadership – including the mayor, police chief, and chief public prosecutor – condemned the attacks as “an unacceptable outburst of violence” and called it “indefensible.” They further condemned any antisemitic behavior observed during the night and underscored the city’s commitment to the safety of both Israeli visitors and the local Jewish community.
The Amsterdam city government has pledged extra police presence in the coming days to monitor and control the situation. Additionally, they are coordinating with the Dutch government, the Israeli embassy, and local Jewish organizations to ensure heightened security around Jewish sites and institutions.
NETANYAHU SENDS AID FROM ISRAEL
Prime Minister Netanyahu, who expressed deep concern over the violence, revealed that two Israeli planes have been dispatched to assist citizens affected by the incident. In a statement released through ‘Reuters’, Netanyahu condemned the attacks as a “violent episode against Israeli nationals” and emphasized his commitment to ensuring the safety of Israeli citizens abroad.
The issue also reached Dutch television Thursday night. During the broadcast of “Bar Laat” on NPO1, a pro-Palestinian activist interrupted host Jeroen Pauw as he introduced Frans Timmermans, the GroenLinks-PvdA leader. The protester accused the show of “failing to provide a platform for anti-genocide demonstrators,” citing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The activist was escorted out by security shortly after.
ISRAEL-PALESTINE CONFLICT
The recent unrest highlights rising tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict, which has continued to provoke intense debate and activism across Europe. Many in Amsterdam’s Jewish community have voiced anxiety over these incidents. The city’s leadership, aiming to protect public order and address community concerns, has called on anyone affected to come forward and report incidents to the police.
With growing concerns about safety and rising tensions, Amsterdam’s leaders have emphasized that all residents and visitors should feel secure in the city and that any form of targeted violence or hatred will be met with strict measures.
