In response to violent incidents targeting Israeli soccer fans, Amsterdam has announced a three-day ban on public demonstrations starting Friday. Mayor Femke Halsema described the attackers as “antisemitic hit-and-run squads,” while Israel responded by arranging flights to bring Israeli supporters home.
Rising Tensions in Amsterdam After Soccer Match
Israeli supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv, in Amsterdam for a match against Ajax, were subjected to violence around the city. According to Mayor Halsema, these fans were attacked, harassed, and bombarded with fireworks. Riot police intervened to protect the fans, escorting them to hotels. At least five individuals required hospital treatment. Videos shared online show riot police clashing with attackers, who were reportedly shouting anti-Israeli slurs. Some footage also captured Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters chanting inflammatory slogans before the game.
Joni Pogrebetsy, an Israeli fan visiting for the match, described the frightening atmosphere, saying, “We saw a lot of demonstrations, a lot of people running. It was really, really terrifying.”
Background of Rising Antisemitism and Gaza Conflict
Since Israel’s latest military operations in Gaza, antisemitic incidents have surged in the Netherlands. These operations began following October attacks by Hamas, which have ignited a wave of global protests and intensified local tensions. Many Jewish organizations in the Netherlands have reported an increase in threats and hate mail.
Heightened Security Measures in Amsterdam
The protest ban, extended through the weekend, also granted police special powers for stop-and-search operations to control further unrest. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof expressed horror over the attacks and assured Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that those responsible would be held accountable. Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, traveled to Amsterdam to discuss the situation with Dutch leaders.
In Washington, President Biden called the attacks “despicable,” condemning them as echoes of historic antisemitism. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also expressed shock at the violence in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam Tightens Security for Kristallnacht Memorial
Mayor Halsema noted that local authorities were unprepared for the violence, as the Ajax-Maccabi game was not initially marked as high-risk. With the increased security presence, Amsterdam is planning a memorial service for Kristallnacht, the 1938 Nazi-led pogrom against Jews, scheduled for Saturday at a local Jewish monument.
Verified videos show groups of men running near Amsterdam Central Station, appearing to chase others as police sirens sounded. Another clip captured Maccabi fans igniting flares and chanting in support of the Israel Defense Forces, which further inflamed tensions.
Growing Impact of the Gaza-Israel Conflict Across Europe
Israel’s embassy in The Hague issued a statement, warning of rising antisemitic violence, describing these incidents as reminiscent of past European pogroms. Echoing similar sentiments, President Herzog of Israel referenced disturbing historical comparisons, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The unrest has highlighted the complex impact of the ongoing Gaza conflict, which has provoked protests from supporters of both sides across Europe and the United States. As Amsterdam seeks to restore calm, authorities are focused on the security of residents and visitors amid a polarized international landscape.
Stay connected to know more on arcnews.online for global news like Amsterdam Imposes Protest Ban After Violent Attacks on Israeli Soccer Fans. For videos updates visit our YouTube. Do subscribe to Arcnews to get latest updates directly in your mail box.
Have A Great Day.
