Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked the Netherlands to provide more security for Israelis following an attack on fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv FC in Amsterdam. The violence occurred after a UEFA Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv, leading to injuries and arrests. Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema described the violence as an outbreak of antisemitism that the city had hoped to never see again. Israeli President Isaac Herzog called it the most alarming event for Jews since previous attacks by Hamas terrorists. There are reports of Maccabi fans chanting anti-Arab slogans before the game, leading to condemnation from the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Israeli air carrier El Al is sending planes to Amsterdam to evacuate Israelis, as the Israeli Defense Forces stand down on immediate rescue efforts in the city. Netanyahu urged Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof to boost security measures for Israelis in the Netherlands following these “premeditated attacks.” Israeli authorities have added more phone lines at the embassy and Foreign Ministry’s situation room to assist those affected by the violence. Despite the IDF barring soldiers from flying to Amsterdam, exceptional requests will be considered on an individual basis.
Violence in Amsterdam saw Israelis being targeted by anti-Israel protesters, resulting in injuries and arrests. Reports indicate that youths were actively seeking out Israeli fans, with some being physically assaulted and robbed. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof condemned the attacks as antisemitic and promised that the perpetrators would be prosecuted. Israeli President Isaac Herzog described the incidents as a serious warning to any country that values freedom. The Dutch prime minister vowed to track down those responsible for the attacks on Israeli soccer fans.
The incidents in Amsterdam have sparked strong reactions from Israeli and Palestinian authorities, with both sides issuing statements condemning the violence and actions taken by supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv FC. Israeli authorities have taken steps to evacuate Israelis from Amsterdam and increase security measures for citizens in the Netherlands. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called on Dutch leaders to reinforce security for Israelis and address the escalating antisemitic incidents in the country. Dutch political leader Geert Wilders has criticized the government’s response to the attacks, calling for accountability for failing to protect Israeli citizens in the face of violence.
The violent attacks on Maccabi Tel Aviv FC fans in Amsterdam have raised concerns about rising antisemitism in the region, with Israeli and Dutch leaders condemning the incidents. The attacks have been linked to anti-Israel sentiment and have led to injuries, arrests, and widespread condemnation from various parties. Israeli authorities have taken steps to ensure the safety of their citizens in the Netherlands and have called on Dutch officials to address the root causes of the violence targeting Israelis. The situation has sparked a heated debate on the need to combat antisemitism and ensure the protection of all individuals regardless of their nationality or beliefs.
