Violence in Amsterdam after the Ajax-Maccabi Tel-Aviv match: Israeli fans attacked

Israel denounces “appalling” violence and sends help

On the night of Thursday November 7, violent clashes broke out in the center of Amsterdam after the Europa League match in which Ajax crushed Maccabi Tel-Aviv 5-0. Several Israeli supporters were attacked in the middle of the city. Israel, strongly condemning the violence, quickly announced the dispatch of two rescue planes to assist its citizens.

According to the Dutch news agency ANP, the Amsterdam police made 57 arrests in connection with various incidents that took place on the sidelines of the event, although the authorities did not detail the facts. Contacted for a reaction, the Dutch Ministry of the Interior has so far chosen not to comment.

Indignation from Israeli authorities and police mobilization in Amsterdam

In response to the attacks, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his deep concern and urged the Dutch authorities to take severe measures against the troublemakers: “We will not pass over in silence these images of attacks against our citizens in Amsterdam”, he said.

Local media outlet AT5 reported that a large police force had been deployed, including vehicles from the mobile unit and reinforcements to deal with the situation. Groups of young people also clashed with the police. Israeli fans were escorted by police to their hotels to ensure their safety, as shown in the images broadcast by AT5.

Tensions around the stadium and provocations linked to the Middle East conflict

During the afternoon, around a hundred Israeli fans had gathered in Dam Square under heavy guard before heading to the Johan Cruyff stadium. A pro-Palestinian rally, originally scheduled to take place near the stadium, had been moved further away by Amsterdam city council for security reasons.

Videos circulating on social networks also show Maccabi Tel-Aviv supporters tearing up Palestinian flags in the streets and making remarks linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. They also reportedly refused to observe the minute’s silence in tribute to the victims of the recent floods in Spain.

These incidents come as Israel is involved in military operations against Hamas in Gaza and faces tensions with Hezbollah in Lebanon, in a context of heightened conflict since the deadly attack on October 7, 2023.