Rioting Incident In Amsterdam Following Maccabi Tel Aviv Match
On November 7, 2024, a violent incident unfolded in Amsterdam after the UEFA Europa League match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax Amsterdam. Israeli fans were targeted in a series of attacks that left several injured, prompting the Dutch authorities to condemn the violence as anti-Semitic. In response to the unrest, Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema announced a three-day ban on protests and increased police presence to ensure the safety of fans and locals. According to police reports, five Israeli fans were hospitalized, with 20 to 30 others sustaining minor injuries. A total of 63 individuals were arrested, with 10 still in custody as investigations continue.
Reactions from Officials and Public Figures
The attacks have drawn widespread condemnation from various officials, including Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, who described the events as "terrible" and "horrible." He expressed shame over the violence occurring in the Netherlands and assured that the perpetrators would be identified and prosecuted. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu likened the attacks to Kristallnacht, emphasizing the need for swift action against the assailants. Meanwhile, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, who traveled to the Netherlands following the incident, labeled the attacks as "barbaric and anti-Semitic," calling for severe punishment for those responsible.
Social Media Fallout and International Reactions
In the wake of the rioting, former Egyptian footballer Mohamed Aboutrika criticized the situation on social media, branding the attackers as "killers of children and women" and calling for a ban on Zionist clubs. His comments led to the suspension of his Facebook account, highlighting the contentious nature of the discourse surrounding the incident. The violence has also sparked discussions around the safety of Israeli fans attending matches in Europe, prompting Israel's National Security Council to advise citizens to avoid upcoming games involving Israeli teams. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry condemned the anti-Arab chants and violence, calling for protection of Palestinians in the Netherlands, while the Palestinian Football Association expressed concern over the incitement to violence by Maccabi Tel Aviv fans.
