Israeli Football Fans Attacked in Amsterdam, Raising Concerns Over Antisemitic Violence
Israeli football fans experienced multiple attacks in Amsterdam following a Europa League match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax, with police stepping in several times to maintain security. This outbreak of violence has drawn international attention and condemnation, as authorities in both Israel and the Netherlands address the implications of these events.
The attacks reportedly targeted fans of Israel’s Maccabi Tel Aviv club, who were in Amsterdam for their team’s Europa League game against Ajax. Dutch riot police deployed significant resources to handle the situation, yet Israeli fans were injured in various areas across the city. According to local officials, despite substantial police presence, a number of injuries occurred, leading to the hospitalization of five individuals. Authorities report ongoing investigations, with 62 arrests made in connection to the unrest.
Prominent figures have reacted strongly to the incidents. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof described the attacks as “antisemitic,” condemning the perpetrators and vowing that they would be prosecuted. He also communicated with Israel’s Prime Minister, stressing that measures would be taken to bring those responsible to justice. Additionally, the Dutch national coordinator for combatting antisemitism declared the violence as “disgusting,” adding that it signaled a disturbing readiness among perpetrators to engage in hate-fueled actions.
The situation escalated initially in Dam Square, where confrontations arose between Maccabi fans and pro-Palestinian demonstrators. Before the match, tensions surfaced with incidents involving fireworks and reports of anti-Arab chants from a section of fans. Dutch authorities attempted to mitigate further clashes by moving protesters away from the stadium, yet the unrest continued after the game, with masked individuals reportedly participating in the riots.
Videos circulating on social media capture scenes of violent attacks, with some individuals seen being physically assaulted or struck by vehicles. Unverified footage included chants of pro-Palestinian slogans, amplifying tensions surrounding the situation. According to Amsterdam police, they are investigating the involvement of various groups in these incidents, though the identities of all those involved remain unclear.
The violence in Amsterdam has drawn international scrutiny, particularly given its timing, as it occurred just days before the anniversary of the 1938 Nazi pogrom against Jews in Germany. Israeli President Isaac Herzog has described the events as a “pogrom” against Israelis, expressing confidence that Dutch authorities will respond swiftly to secure the well-being of Israeli nationals and the broader Jewish community. Herzog’s call to action is echoed by Dutch officials, who have publicly condemned the attacks and pledged to prevent any recurrence of similar incidents.
The U.S. special envoy on antisemitism, Deborah Lipstadt, voiced deep concerns, remarking that the nature of the violence was “terribly reminiscent” of historical antisemitic attacks. The Dutch anti-Islam politician Geert Wilders also criticized the government’s response, holding authorities accountable for what he termed as their “failure to protect Israeli citizens.” Such statements underline the broad impact these events have had internationally.
Local law enforcement has been actively working to manage the situation. Before the match, Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema attempted to prevent conflict by relocating pro-Palestinian demonstrators from areas near the stadium. However, reports indicate that a large group still attempted to reach the stadium, only to be intercepted by riot police. Amid rising concerns, authorities advised Israeli fans to remain in their hotels and avoid public spaces.
Dutch police have assured the public that they are fully engaged in both securing the area and investigating any breaches of the peace. A police spokesperson highlighted their commitment to identifying individuals involved in violent acts and bringing them to justice.
Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued warnings to its citizens in Amsterdam, urging them to stay indoors. There were reports that three Israeli individuals had temporarily lost contact with the Israeli consulate, prompting additional security measures and heightened vigilance.
This unrest highlights underlying tensions that have resonated globally. The Dutch co-coordinator for combating antisemitism remarked that witnessing such violence on the eve of a historically significant date for the Jewish community added to the “horror” and “shame” felt by many.
