Tensions have skyrocketed in Amsterdam after a violent episode involving Israeli fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv. The incident occurred on the sidelines of a Europa League match against Ajax, where ten Israeli fans were attacked by an apparently pro-Palestinian crowd. Faced with this alarming situation, Israel’s new Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, announced an urgent diplomatic visit to the Netherlands.
According to the Israeli Foreign Ministry, Maccabi Tel Aviv fans suffered injuries as a result of the attack. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as “a premeditated attack” and urged the Dutch government to ensure greater security for the Jewish community. In a conversation with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, Netanyahu expressed concern over the growing anti-Semitic violence.
“We take this attack on Israeli citizens with the utmost seriousness and expect a decisive response from local authorities,” Netanyahu said. In response, Schoof condemned the attacks as “absolutely unacceptable” and assured that those responsible will be prosecuted. He also confirmed that he is in contact with the authorities to ensure the safety of citizens.
Clashes erupted in central Amsterdam after Maccabi’s defeat to Ajax, with local authorities reporting 57 arrests made during the day. Dutch sovereignist leader Geert Wilders described the events as a “pogrom” and called for those responsible to be severely punished. Wilders also expressed concern about what he sees as a Jew-hunting campaign in the streets: “I will never accept that the authorities do not protect Israeli citizens,” he said in a social media post. Dutch Rabbi Yanki Jacobs also raised questions about the demonization of anything Israeli or Jewish, urging strong condemnation of the violence.
The incident in Amsterdam raises profound questions about the safety of Jewish communities in Europe. With geopolitical tensions and anti-Semitic sentiments on the rise, it is crucial that local authorities take effective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The current situation calls for vigilance and a joint effort to ensure safety and social cohesion.
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