Violence erupted on the streets of Amsterdam on the night of November 8, 2024, during the aftermath of a soccer match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax. This spree of violence has been termed by many officials and observers as a pogrom, leaving multiple injuries among Israelis and prompting urgent actions from the Israeli government.
What was supposed to be just another night of sport quickly turned disastrous as members of Maccabi Tel Aviv’s fan club were ambushed following the game. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and terror as fans were chased through the streets, beaten, and even attacked with knives. One victim, pleading for his life, reportedly cried out, "I’m not Jewish!" before being assaulted. This incident highlights the rising tension between pro-Palestinian groups and the Jewish community, particularly evident amid recent political unrest and protests.
According to reports, at least ten Israelis have been injured, with injuries ranging from minor to serious. Dutch police confirmed they arrested 62 individuals related to the violence and attempted to manage the situation. Prior to the clashes, there were indications of planned protests against Maccabi Tel Aviv and its supporters.
With the situation growing increasingly dire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acted quickly, sending two emergency flights to evacuate Israeli citizens from Amsterdam. Official communications indicate the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) is coordinating rescue operations, deploying cargo aircraft and medical teams. Netanyahu expressed his horror at the violent events, urging the Dutch government to respond decisively and protect the Jewish community.
Netanyahu's call to action came after discussions with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, who voiced his condemnation of the attacks and promised to prosecute those responsible. Schoof referred to the incidents as completely unacceptable, sharing his dismay over the violent confrontations.
Reports of the confrontations noted the involvement of organized groups targeting Israelis, with multiple videos circulating showing the violent assaults. Some Israeli fans, feeling abandoned by local law enforcement, took to public transport without police escort. This absence of protection drew criticism, with observers dubbing the violence as premeditated.
Eyewitness accounts and video footage depict shocking scenes: fans jumped barricades and plunged blindly off canals, fearing for their safety as violent crowds closed in. Compounding the devastation, numerous fans claimed they faced attempts at kidnapping. Statements made by victims emphasized the planned nature of the attacks, with assertions pointing to coordinated efforts by groups planning to target Israelis.
The violence coincided tragically with the anniversary of Kristallnacht, evoking painful memories of antisemitic violence throughout history. The timing sparked outrage and fear within the Jewish community, prompting fears of rising antisemitism across Europe. Amid the chaos, the Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed contact with many individuals but noted three remaining who had yet to establish communication, attributing the silence potentially to stolen phones during the attacks.
Jewish leaders and organizations have expressed grave concerns about the safety of Jewish diaspora communities not only in the Netherlands but throughout Europe. The Foreign Ministry highlighted its vigilant efforts to provide support to Israelis and Jews adversely affected by the violence.
On the ground, the consulate efforts were described as intense, with personnel actively searching hospitals for any Israelis involved. Reports came from local hospitals confirming the injuries sustained, showing the violent repercussions of the night.
Despite calls from various groups and officials urging calm and solidarity, the events left many questioning the safety and security of traveling abroad as tensions escalate globally.
For many involved, these events were far from typical fan confrontations; they symbolized the reluctant reawakening of societal divisions coming full circle, evoking memories of persecution against Jews. The broader dialogues surrounding these divisions will undoubtedly continue.
Continued efforts are being made to prepare evacuations and bolster the security of Jewish communities throughout Europe. Meanwhile, investigation and prosecution of involved individuals and group organizers remain at the forefront of discussions between Israeli and Dutch leadership, as both countries continue to deal with the serious aftermath of the violent encounters.
