Violence in Amsterdam: The Reaction of Israeli Diplomacy

Recent violence in Amsterdam, involving clashes between Israeli soccer fans and an apparently pro-Palestinian crowd, has prompted Israel’s new Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, to undertake an “urgent diplomatic visit” to the Netherlands. The events have sparked an outpouring of condemnation and concern from Israeli and Dutch officials.

Attacks on Israeli fans

According to the Israeli Foreign Ministry, ten Maccabi Tel Aviv fans were injured in the attack after the match against Ajax. Footage circulating online shows masked individuals brandishing Palestinian flags and attacking Israeli supporters. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as a “premeditated attack” and urged Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof to ensure greater security for the local Jewish community. He also requested that two planes be sent to bring home the Israeli citizens involved in the attack.

Netanyahu stressed that he considers the incident “atrocious” and calls for decisive action against those responsible.

Convictions and demands for justice

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof condemned the attacks, calling them “absolutely unacceptable.” He assured that the perpetrators would be found and prosecuted. In a phone call with Netanyahu, Schoof pledged his commitment to maintaining security in the Dutch capital. In response to the clashes, Geert Wilders, leader of the Dutch sovereignist party, said that the streets of Amsterdam seemed to have become a hunting ground for anti-Semites. He called on the authorities to take decisive action against those who participated in the attacks.

Wilders said: “I will never accept this violence on our streets.” Other public figures also condemned the incident. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed outrage at the attacks and reiterated her commitment to fighting anti-Semitism in Europe.

Future prospects

These events raise important questions about the safety of Jewish communities in Europe and the ability of local authorities to protect citizens during public demonstrations. Israeli diplomacy now finds itself having to deal not only with the immediate consequences of the clashes but also with the broader tensions related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. International reactions will be crucial to prevent further escalations of violence and ensure a climate of safety for all citizens.