'Anti-Semitic' clashes erupt in Amsterdam following Ajax vs Maccabi Tel-Aviv match

Violence erupted following the Europa League match in Amsterdam, where Ajax defeated Maccabi Tel-Aviv 5-0. A Dutch police spokesperson reported that 57 people were arrested but did not provide further details.

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof condemned the "unacceptable anti-Semitic attacks on Israelis" and expressed his concern on social media platform X, noting he had assured Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that those responsible would be prosecuted. The conversation between the two leaders came after Netanyahu ordered rescue planes to the Netherlands to evacuate Israeli fans.

Netanyahu emphasized the seriousness of the "premeditated anti-Semitic attack" and requested heightened security for the Dutch Jewish community. Dutch media outlet AT5 reported that the clashes began around midnight in the city center, involving fights and vandalism, with social media flooded by unverified images. AT5 also noted that police had increased their presence, escorting fans back to their hotels and responding to provocations from local youths.

The Israeli embassy in the United States claimed that "hundreds" of Maccabi fans were "ambushed and attacked" after leaving the stadium, calling it a targeted assault on "innocent Israelis." In response, Israeli President Isaac Herzog urged Dutch authorities to protect Israelis and Jews, describing the incident as a "shocking anti-Semitic pogrom" reminiscent of the violence seen since October 7.

The Israeli government advised its citizens in Amsterdam to stay indoors and avoid visible symbols of Israeli or Jewish identity. In a coordinated “rescue mission,” Israel deployed cargo planes with medical and rescue teams, while Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar requested Dutch assistance to ensure safe passage for Israelis from their hotels to the airport.

Ahead of the game, Amsterdam police had heightened vigilance following recent incidents, including the removal of a Palestinian flag. A planned pro-Palestinian rally was relocated from near the stadium for security reasons.

This violence occurs amid heightened anti-Israeli sentiment and reports of anti-Semitic incidents worldwide, fueled by the escalating conflicts between Israel and Iran-backed groups in Lebanon and Gaza, which have resulted in substantial civilian casualties.