Violence Erupts Against Israeli Fans in Amsterdam
On the night of November 7, 2024, violence erupted in Amsterdam following a Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv, resulting in numerous attacks on Israeli football supporters. The president of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions in France (CRIF), Yonathan Arfi, condemned the incidents as a "mass lynching," highlighting a resurgence of anti-Semitism linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Eyewitness accounts and social media videos depicted brutal assaults by masked assailants, some of whom carried Palestinian flags and chanted pro-Palestinian slogans.
Approximately 3,000 fans had traveled to Amsterdam to support Maccabi Tel Aviv, but after the team's 5-0 defeat, chaos ensued in the streets. Reports indicated that supporters were ambushed and attacked as they left metro stations, with some suffering severe injuries from stabbings and beatings. The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the violence as a "premeditated anti-Semitic attack," prompting immediate government action to assist the affected fans.
Security Concerns and Future Matches
In light of the violence, Yonathan Arfi expressed concerns about the upcoming France-Israel football match scheduled for November 14 at the Stade de France. While he advocated for the match to proceed, he emphasized the need for heightened security measures both at the venue and throughout Paris. Arfi stated, "If we relocated this match, what symbol would that be? We must maintain this match and ensure safety for all attendees."
The CRIF president also criticized the misuse of the phrase "Free Palestine," which he claimed has become a rallying cry for unacceptable violence. He called for a collective effort to combat rising anti-Semitism in Europe, stating, "This is an immense challenge for Europe."
Response from Authorities and Community
In response to the violent events, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged citizens in Amsterdam to seek assistance through their emergency hotline. The Israeli embassy in the Netherlands was also involved in coordinating support for fans who were unaccounted for following the attacks. Eyewitness accounts from fans described a frightening atmosphere, with reports of individuals being chased and assaulted in the streets.
Local authorities, including Amsterdam's mayor, have promised to increase police presence in the area to ensure the safety of all citizens. The situation remains tense as the community grapples with the implications of these violent acts against Israeli supporters.
