Dutch PM Condemns Anti-Semitic Clashes in Amsterdam After Europa League Match

Clashes following the Europa League match in Amsterdam between Ajax Amsterdam and Maccabi Tel Aviv have drawn strong condemnation from Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof and Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema. The incident is being regarded as a serious act of anti-Semitism, resulting in injuries to several Israeli nationals and criticism over the authorities’ failure to prevent the attacks.

PM Schoof called the incident an unacceptable act of anti-Semitism and vowed to prosecute the perpetrators. Speaking in Budapest during a European Union leaders’ meeting, he expressed shame that such an event could occur in the Netherlands in 2024. Amsterdam police reported the arrest of 62 individuals in connection with the clashes.

Mayor Halsema also expressed shame over the incident, describing the attacks as hateful actions targeting supporters of the Israeli football club. She characterized the assaults as being carried out by scooter gangs employing “hit-and-run” tactics against Maccabi Tel Aviv fans. According to Halsema, the violence tarnished Amsterdam’s reputation and led to an “unbearable night.”

The violence occurred despite heightened security around the stadium. The attacks unfolded in several areas of the city, exposing lapses in monitoring such threats. Media reports noted that approximately 3,000 Israeli fans had traveled to Amsterdam to support their team, making them the target of the brutal assaults.

This incident has sparked serious discussions about measures to combat anti-Semitism and ensure safety at international sporting events.