Amsterdam Incident: 62 Arrested After Assaults on Maccabi Tel Aviv Fans Amid Tensions

Following a Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam, a series of assaults on Israeli fans led to 62 arrests, according to Dutch authorities. The attacks were reportedly incited by social media posts calling for violence against Jewish individuals. The clashes resulted in multiple injuries, with five people receiving hospital treatment and several others sustaining minor injuries.

Tensions had escalated in the Dutch capital due to ongoing conflicts involving Israel in Gaza and Lebanon. Prior to the match, local authorities had prohibited a planned pro-Palestinian demonstration near the stadium. Footage shared online showed a large group of Israeli supporters chanting anti-Arab slogans while making their way to the game, which heightened the volatile atmosphere.

After the match, groups of young individuals, some on scooters, targeted Israeli fans throughout the city, engaging in physical assaults before fleeing to avoid police intervention. Amsterdam's Mayor, Femke Halsema, described the situation as deeply disturbing. "In Telegram groups," she stated, "there is talk of people going on a Jew hunt. That is so shocking and so despicable that I still cannot fathom it."

Victims recounted their experiences during the chaos. Ofek Ziv, a fan from Petah Tikva, Israel, mentioned being struck in the head by a rock as he exited the stadium. "I'm very scared, it's very striking. This shouldn't happen to anyone, specifically in Amsterdam," Ziv said. He noted that other fans faced various forms of violence, including being "kidnapped, robbed," and complained about a lack of police intervention.

Another fan, Alyia Cohen, shared a different encounter, explaining how his group avoided attacks by not wearing Maccabi shirts, allowing them to go unrecognized. Despite the incident, Cohen expressed his resolve, stating, "We are not afraid of anything. Ours is the people of Israel."

Sara Tillart, a spokesperson for the Amsterdam police, mentioned that the investigation is still ongoing, and it is unclear if others beyond the soccer fans were targeted. Authorities revealed that five individuals were treated and released from hospitals, while around 20 to 30 people reported minor injuries. Of the 62 suspects arrested, 10 remain in custody as investigations continue, according to Rene de Beukelaer, the city's public prosecutor.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation across Europe, with accusations of antisemitism. Mayor Halsema described the violence as "an eruption of antisemitism that we had hoped never again to see in Amsterdam." The city, historically a haven for persecuted communities, now faces a reassessment of its reputation for tolerance.

In response, Dutch authorities have announced increased security measures at Jewish institutions in Amsterdam. The attacks prompted Israel's government to send officials to the Netherlands and initially plan charter flights to bring fans back home. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed strong disapproval of the incident, stating, "The harsh pictures of the assault on our citizens in Amsterdam will not be overlooked." He urged the Dutch government to take "vigorous and swift action" against the perpetrators.

Ben Mansford, CEO of Maccabi Tel Aviv, spoke to the press at the airport, reflecting on the distressing experience for fans. "Lots of people went to watch a football game ... to support Israel, to support the star of David," Mansford said, emphasizing the sadness of the situation.

The attacks are likely to prompt a review of security protocols for future matches involving Israeli teams. UEFA has already moved Maccabi's upcoming Europa League game against Turkish side Besiktas from Istanbul to a neutral venue. Additionally, Israel's national team is set to face France in Paris on Nov. 14, with French authorities confirming that the match will proceed as planned at the Stade de France, emphasizing the importance of not yielding to threats.

The violent incidents in Amsterdam reflect the broader tensions related to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and have reignited discussions on security measures at international sporting events involving Israeli teams.