By BJLife Israel Newsroom
Posted on 11/08/24
In a coordinated attack following Maccabi Tel Aviv's soccer match against AFC Ajax, Israeli fans were assaulted in the streets of Amsterdam by a group of pro-Palestinian demonstrators. The assailants, some masked and waving Palestinian flags, were reported to have shouted “Free Palestine” while attacking the fans. Video footage shows instances of violent assaults, with some fans being forced to say “Free Palestine” to avoid further harm. Numerous Israelis were injured, and some fans were forced to barricade themselves in local stores and buildings for safety. Reports indicate that two people remain unaccounted for, while several passports were reportedly stolen by the attackers.
Response and Assistance: Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, swiftly responded to the incident. Netanyahu has dispatched two emergency flights to assist the injured and evacuate Israeli citizens from Amsterdam. He has urged the Dutch authorities to act decisively, calling the event a "horrific incident" and demanding swift action against the perpetrators to ensure the safety of Israeli citizens.
Witness Accounts and Police Action: Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic and terrifying, stating that attackers ambushed fans outside the stadium, near hotels, and even by train stations. The violence reportedly continued for 30 to 45 minutes before local police intervened. Amsterdam police have arrested at least 65 individuals on charges of public disorder and possession of fireworks, although it remains unclear if those detained were directly involved in the attacks.
International Reactions and Warnings: Several prominent Israeli figures, including former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, condemned the attacks. They described the incident as a "pogrom" and warned of rising radical violence in Europe. Dutch right-wing leader Geert Wilders also expressed outrage, calling it a “Jew hunt” and urging the arrest and deportation of the perpetrators.
The Israeli National Security Council has advised citizens in Amsterdam to avoid going outside, refrain from displaying Israeli symbols, and seek shelter in secure locations. Additionally, Israel’s Foreign Ministry has established hotlines for those in distress.
Context and Preceding Warnings: The incident followed previous warnings about potential pro-Palestinian demonstrations targeting the Israeli team and its supporters. Security for the match was reportedly increased, including the involvement of Mossad agents to protect the Israeli team, but this did not prevent the violence that erupted post-game.