Violent incidents targeting Israeli fans during a football match in Amsterdam have sparked outrage among politicians, who condemned the anti-Semitic attacks. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and German leaders called for accountability and emphasized the importance of fighting anti-Semitism. Following the match, riots led to numerous arrests and injuries. Israeli officials drew parallels to historical pogroms, while special flights were arranged to repatriate affected fans amid growing concerns over safety for Jewish communities in Europe.
Outrage Over Violence Against Israeli Fans
In a shocking turn of events, politicians have voiced their condemnation following violent incidents targeting Israeli fans during a football match in Amsterdam. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof described the attacks as “unacceptable anti-Semitic violence,” expressing his disgust over the situation via social media. He emphasized the importance of holding all offenders accountable, having discussed the incidents with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Political Leaders Unite Against Anti-Semitism
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen joined the chorus of condemnation, stating, “Anti-Semitism has absolutely no place in Europe,” and reaffirming the commitment to combat all forms of hatred. Following the match, riots erupted between pro-Palestinian demonstrators and Israeli supporters, prompting a strong response from Chancellor Olaf Scholz. He described the reports of violence as “unbearable,” asserting that attacks on Jews threaten the safety of all Europeans.
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock echoed these sentiments, calling the violence “terrible and deeply shameful,” and highlighting the unacceptable nature of such acts against Jewish individuals. Germany’s ambassador to Israel, Steffen Seibert, also condemned the violence, stating that attacking Israeli fans is not a legitimate form of protest but rather a criminal act that must be opposed by all.
Josef Schuster, president of the Central Council of Jews, expressed horror at the events, noting that the resurgence of violence against Jews is a grave concern, especially with the anniversary of Kristallnacht approaching. He emphasized that the incidents reflect a troubling reality where Jews feel increasingly unsafe in Western Europe.
Since the recent Hamas attacks on Israel, Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) has documented 2,249 anti-Semitic crimes, underscoring a troubling trend of violence against Jewish communities.
In light of the attacks, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu drew parallels between the violence in Amsterdam and the historic Nazi pogroms, stressing that the recurrence of such anti-Semitic acts is a grim reminder of the past. Israeli President Izchak Herzog also expressed deep concern over the incidents, describing them as a shocking anti-Semitic pogrom against fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Following the Europa League match between Ajax Amsterdam and Maccabi Tel Aviv, police reported that 62 arrests were made as pro-Palestinian youths targeted Israeli fans. Injuries were reported, with five individuals requiring hospitalization. Mayor Femke Halsema condemned the incidents as anti-Semitic behavior and called for thorough investigations.
Footage circulating on social media depicts the distressing reality faced by Israeli fans, who were chased and assaulted in the streets. Reports suggest that Dutch authorities had prior warnings about potential violence against specific fans, which raises further questions about the adequacy of the security measures in place.
In response to the escalating situation, Prime Minister Netanyahu has arranged special flights to repatriate Israeli fans from Amsterdam. The airline El Al confirmed these flights, which will operate over the weekend, as the government continues to monitor the situation closely. While the need for security remains paramount, the idea of a military rescue mission has been dismissed.
This incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for action against anti-Semitism, highlighting the urgent need for continued vigilance and support for Jewish communities across Europe.