Israel Condemns Attack on Fans in Amsterdam, Citing October 7 Comparison

Photo : AP

In Amsterdam, tensions escalated into violence during a Europa League football match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax at the Johan Cruyff Arena, Ajax’s main stadium. Clashes reportedly began outside the stadium on Thursday night, with confrontations involving Israeli supporters and apparent pro-Palestinian protesters. Ajax won the game 5-0, leading 3-0 at halftime.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs later reported that ten Israelis sustained injuries, while two remain unaccounted for. In response, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced that special flights would be arranged to quickly return affected citizens to Israel.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog voiced his condemnation, comparing the "shocking images" of violence in Amsterdam to the October 7 Hamas attack from 2023, describing the events as an “antisemitic pogrom” targeting Israelis and Maccabi Tel Aviv fans.

Amsterdam police deployed numerous mobile units and reinforcements to manage widespread disturbances and vandalism in the city center. A total of 57 individuals were detained after attempting to enter the stadium, despite bans on protests in the area.

The next Europa League match is scheduled for November 28, when Maccabi Tel Aviv faces a Turkish club in Istanbul. Turkish authorities have mandated the game be held at a neutral venue to ensure safety.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock condemned the violence, describing the scenes from Amsterdam as “awful” and “deeply shameful” for Europe. She stated that such violence “breaks all boundaries” and has no justification.