How Israeli fans attacked Pro-Palestinian agitators in Amsterdam
Israeli football fans attack pro-Palestinian demonstrators in Amsterdam on Thursday night before and after a Europa League match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax. The violence, centred around the Johan Cruyff Arena and other areas of the city, was reportedly instigated by Maccabi supporters, according to Amsterdam city council member Jazie Veldhuyzen.
The tensions had been building for days, culminating in scenes of chaos as hundreds of Maccabi Tel Aviv fans rallied in Amsterdam’s main square. The supporters, waving Israeli flags, were captured on video taking down a Palestinian flag from a building, prompting outrage. Videos also showed Maccabi fans chanting anti-Arab slogans, including inflammatory remarks referencing the recent conflict in Gaza and the death of a Hamas leader.
The clashes escalated when Israeli fans allegedly began attacking properties displaying Palestinian flags, leading to retaliatory action from Amsterdam residents and pro-Palestinian demonstrators. Police, who had anticipated potential unrest, deployed about 600 officers but faced criticism for their handling of the violence. Council member Veldhuyzen claimed police intervened primarily to protect Maccabi supporters while failing to respond effectively to initial provocations.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as a “horrifying attack” on Israeli citizens and demanded swift action from Dutch authorities. He also instructed Mossad to devise strategies to prevent violence at international events involving Israeli nationals. The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported ten injuries among their citizens.
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In response, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the violence and anti-Arab rhetoric, calling for a Dutch investigation into the disturbances. Activist Mo Kotesh claimed Israeli fans targeted Palestinian-owned properties, leading to spontaneous defensive actions by locals.
Amsterdam’s Mayor Femke Halsema had previously banned a pro-Palestinian demonstration to prevent potential clashes. However, tensions spilled over, leading to injuries, property damage, and 62 arrests.
UEFA and FIFA have been urged by the Palestine Football Association to address what it termed “genocidal, racist, and Islamophobic rhetoric” exhibited by Israeli fans. The football body expressed concern over the violence, vowing to collaborate with relevant authorities to identify and punish those responsible.
Written by Sakinat Musa Abubakar, Editor at Neptune Prime
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