Amsterdam, Netherlands — Authorities reported on Friday that antisemitic rioters targeted Israeli soccer fans in a violent spree following a match in Amsterdam, resulting in hospitalizations and numerous arrests. The troubling event left city officials and international leaders denouncing the violence and calling for rigorous action against the perpetuators.
Police confirmed that five individuals required hospital care but have since been released, while approximately 20 to 30 others sustained minor injuries during the chaos that unfolded late Thursday night. As of Friday’s police updates, at least 62 individuals had been detained, with 10 still in custody pending further investigation.
The violent acts drew sharp criticism from across the globe. U.S. President Joe Biden expressed disgust over the events on social media, voicing solidarity with Dutch and Israeli authorities in their efforts to manage the aftermath and affirming a strong stance against antisemitism. Biden remarked, “Antisemitism has no place anywhere in the world and must be fought relentlessly.”
Amsterdam has increased security around Jewish institutions, acknowledging the city’s significant Jewish community and historical associations with notable Jewish figures including Anne Frank.
Israeli officials rapidly responded to the situation, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stating that while a professional rescue mission to Amsterdam was unnecessary, efforts would focus on aiding the affected citizens, including arranging return flights. By late Friday, an aircraft deployed for the evacuation had landed back in Israel.
This violence disrupts the usually vibrant and safe ambiance of Amsterdam, casting a shadow over the city famed for its rich history and cultural tolerance. The city’s Mayor, Femke Halsema, described the events as a “dark moment” and ensured that security measures and law enforcement would be rigorously applied to prevent future incidents.
Condemnations also poured in from European leaders, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards antisemitism. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof both articulated their horror and shame, reassuring their commitment to combatting hatred and ensuring the safety of all communities.
Historically, Amsterdam has cherished its diverse cultural tapestry, making the antisemitic nature of the attack even more shocking. Despite a banned pro-Palestinian demonstration, confrontations erupted prior to the soccer game, indicating a premeditated aggression that escalated beyond provocative protests.
The violence followed a match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax, which apparently was not just a focal point for sports rivalry but also a flashpoint for deeper, more sinister tensions. This incident in Amsterdam reflects a disturbing increase in antisemitic violence across Europe, fueled further by the ongoing conflict involving Israel.
Law enforcement officials are continuing their investigations, reviewing surveillance footage, and conducting interviews to ensure all involved are held accountable. Meanwhile, community leaders and residents are calling for unity and healing in the wake of these painful events, hoping to restore peace and security to Amsterdam’s streets.