In a shocking turn of events, violent antisemitic attacks erupted in Amsterdam targeting Israeli soccer fans, leading to increased security measures and the deployment of two commercial flights to repatriate those affected. Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema described the assailants as “antisemitic hit-and-run squads” that targeted supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv after their Europa League match against Ajax on 7 November 2024.
Chaos in the City
Witnesses reported scenes of chaos as Maccabi fans, numbering around 3,000, were attacked with fireworks and other violent methods. Halsema stated that at least five people required hospital treatment due to the violence. Social media footage showcased riot police intervening as the unrest unfolded, highlighting a deep-seated anger tied to the ongoing Gaza-Israel conflict.
Rising Antisemitism in Europe
Antisemitic incidents have surged in the Netherlands following Israel’s military actions in Gaza, initiated after the Hamas attacks on Israel on 7 October 2023. Both local Jewish organisations and schools have reported heightened threats and hate mail. The Israeli embassy in The Hague condemned the violence, stating that aggressive mobs shouted anti-Israel slurs while attacking Israeli citizens.
- 62 suspects were detained following the matches.
- Amsterdam has banned demonstrations for three days in light of the unrest.
- Additional security measures are being enacted.
Official Responses
Both Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof and Israeli officials publicly condemned the attacks. Schoof expressed horror and assured that those responsible would face justice. The Mayor also noted that security services had been caught off-guard, failing to identify the match as a high-risk event.
A Historical Context
The timing of the incidents coincided with the remembrance of Kristallnacht, a significant event in Jewish history commemorating the violence against Jews in Nazi Germany in 1938. Israeli President Isaac Herzog likened the present-day violence to historical pogroms, stating it was horrifying to witness similar acts in modern Europe.
As the situation develops, authorities have ramped up measures to ensure the safety of citizens and visitors alike. Amidst the tension, Israel is facilitating special flights to assist its fans in returning home.