Pro-Palestine violence targets Israeli soccer fans in Amsterdam

November 8, 2024

Craig Nigrelli, Anchor

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At least five people were injured and 62 were arrested in Amsterdam after violence erupted Thursday, Nov. 7, following a Europa League soccer match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv. Police reported pro-Palestinian rioters targeted Israeli fans across the city, forcing officers to intervene multiple times to protect supporters and escort them to safety.

The clashes spilled into the streets, with videos showing individuals being chased and attacked near Amsterdam’s central station. Additional footage captured offensive chants and vandalism, including Maccabi fans tearing down a Palestinian flag.

“This is antisemitic violence,” Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said. “What happened last night in Amsterdam and the images and the messages that we have heard from there are downright scandalous and reprehensible. Everything must be done to track down and prosecute the perpetrators.”

Schoof continued by saying that everyone should be able to feel safe while in his country.

“People must be able to feel safe in the Netherlands,” Schoof said. “Jewish fellow citizens must be able to feel safe in the Netherlands and supporters of Jewish football clubs must also be able to feel safe in the Netherlands.”

He said he had spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and local leaders to ensure the safe return of Maccabi supporters to Israel.

The violence unfolded despite a ban on protests near the stadium. Authorities confirmed that pro-Palestinian demonstrators had attempted to march toward the arena but were stopped by riot police.

Amsterdam officials acknowledged that the situation “got out of hand” despite preparations but emphasized the need for a thorough investigation.

In response to the unrest, extra police are patrolling Amsterdam, and security has been heightened at Jewish institutions. Israeli officials described the attacks as deeply troubling, as tensions remain high with ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.

Tags: antisemitism, Benjamin Netanyahu, Euro, Europe, Israel, Israel Defense Forces, Netherlands, Palestine

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Schoof continued by saying that everyone should be able to feel safe while in his country.

He said he had spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and local leaders to ensure the safe return of Maccabi supporters to Israel.

The violence unfolded despite a ban on protests near the stadium. Authorities confirmed that pro-Palestinian demonstrators had attempted to march toward the arena but were stopped by riot police.

Amsterdam officials acknowledged that the situation “got out of hand” despite preparations but emphasized the need for a thorough investigation.