Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff
V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Europe.
Israeli Fans in Amsterdam Targeted in Violent Attacks, Prompting Urgent Response from Dutch Authorities
Israeli football fans, in Amsterdam for a Europa League match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax, were subjected to multiple violent incidents throughout the city. Despite heavy police presence, Dutch authorities reported that fans were attacked in various locations, prompting emergency interventions and the deployment of riot police to prevent further escalation.
The attacks led to the injury of several Israeli supporters, with five individuals requiring hospital treatment. Amsterdam’s police confirmed 62 arrests and are investigating reports of both antisemitic attacks and violent altercations, which included an alleged hostage situation and incidents of people reportedly unaccounted for.
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof condemned the attacks as “antisemitic” and emphasized that perpetrators would be tracked down and prosecuted. In a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Schoof pledged full cooperation in finding those responsible for the violence.
The Netherlands’ Central Jewish Committee (CJO) reported disturbing accounts, including claims that some taxi drivers participated in intimidating Israeli fans by targeting them in groups. Videos circulating on social media showed brutal assaults, with reports of people being physically cornered, assaulted, and in some cases, allegedly run over by vehicles.
Prior to the match, tensions had already flared in Amsterdam’s Dam Square, where clashes broke out between Maccabi supporters and pro-Palestinian demonstrators. According to reports, Israeli fans were seen removing a Palestinian flag and setting off fireworks, further intensifying the already charged atmosphere. Authorities reported that the riots intensified following the game, with groups of people dressed in dark clothing reportedly chanting pro-Palestinian slogans and instigating violence.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog characterized the attacks as a “pogrom” against Israeli citizens, expressing his trust that Dutch authorities would prioritize locating and safeguarding Israeli nationals under threat. Dutch right-wing politician Geert Wilders also decried the violence as a pogrom, criticizing authorities for their perceived failure to protect Israeli fans in the city.
Amid the unrest, Israeli airline El Al arranged two “rescue flights” to evacuate Israeli citizens from Amsterdam, following a decision by Netanyahu to cancel plans to send two military planes for this purpose. Israeli officials advised their citizens to stay in their hotels as a precautionary measure and reported difficulty in reaching three individuals still unaccounted for.
The violent incidents in Amsterdam have drawn international condemnation. US Special Envoy on Antisemitism, Deborah Lipstadt, said she was deeply disturbed by the duration and intensity of the attacks, noting the tragic timing, as they occurred just days before the anniversary of the 1938 Nazi pogrom in Germany.
The images and stories from the night have ignited a new conversation on the need for greater security measures for international events and increased vigilance against antisemitism. Dutch authorities, alongside the international community, are now facing the challenge of addressing rising tensions and ensuring the safety of visitors and residents alike.
