In a tense Europa League matchup between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax Amsterdam, Israeli football fans clashed with pro-Palestinian protesters across Amsterdam, including outside the Johan Cruyff Arena. The incidents unfolded on Thursday night, following Ajax’s 5-0 victory, which had seen the team leading 3-0 at halftime.
Rising Tensions and Political Backdrop
Al Jazeera’s Step Vaessen reported from Amsterdam that these clashes were the culmination of heightened tensions over recent days. Before the incident, hundreds of Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters gathered for a vocal rally, waving Israeli flags and reportedly removing a Palestinian flag from a public area.
Amsterdam’s police had heightened vigilance in response to recent politically charged incidents, especially after the reported flag incident. Social media videos showed Maccabi fans chanting slogans as they removed the flag. Other videos depicted fans chanting anti-Arab slogans, with some reportedly referencing the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and Gaza.
Response from Local Officials and Statements on Violence
Amsterdam City Council member Jazie Veldhuyzen stated that the violence began when Maccabi fans allegedly attacked properties and individuals displaying Palestinian flags. “Amsterdammers mobilized in response to these attacks by Maccabi supporters, which had started Wednesday,” Veldhuyzen told Al Jazeera.
The incident has garnered significant international attention. Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that 10 Israeli citizens sustained injuries. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the event “very violent” and urged the Dutch government to take immediate action to ensure the safety of Israeli nationals. Netanyahu has also tasked Israel’s spy agency, Mossad, with creating preventive measures for future events.
Palestinian Response and Condemnation of Actions
The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the actions, labeling them “anti-Arab chants” and condemning the removal of the Palestinian flag. It called for an immediate investigation by the Dutch government to safeguard Palestinians and Arabs in the Netherlands.
Community Reactions in Amsterdam
Amsterdam activist Mo Kotesh described witnessing Maccabi fans attacking both people and property, adding that the Palestinian community had been following city instructions for a peaceful demonstration. Kotesh also highlighted the locals’ attempts to counter the escalating violence.
International and Social Implications
The incident has sparked discussions on both sides of the issue, with Israeli commentator Ori Goldberg suggesting that such incidents reveal a broader disconnect between actions and consequences for Israeli fans abroad. As the story unfolds, this violent clash underlines the intersection of sports, politics, and international relations on a highly charged global stage.
