AMSTERDAM—Israel dispatched two commercial planes to the Netherlands on Friday to bring back hundreds of Israeli soccer fans following what officials described as antisemitic attacks in the streets of Amsterdam overnight.
Videos circulating on social media depicted riot police stepping in to break up confrontations, with some of the assailants hurling anti-Israeli insults.
Mayor of Amsterdam, Femke Halsema, reported that Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters were “assaulted, mistreated, and targeted with fireworks” and that law enforcement intervened to shield them and accompany them to hotels. She mentioned that at least five individuals received medical treatment at a hospital.
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the decision to send the planes was made following “a highly violent incident” directed at Israeli nationals subsequent to the Maccabi versus Ajax Amsterdam match.
A video authenticated by Reuters captured a group of men running near Amsterdam central station, pursuing and attacking other men, while police sirens blared in the background.
Authorities disclosed that there were altercations before the game, which attracted approximately 3,000 Maccabi supporters to Amsterdam.
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Law enforcement reported that 62 individuals were apprehended following the game as pro-Palestinian demonstrators attempted to converge on the Johan Cruyff Arena, despite the city’s prohibition of a protest.
Officials stated that fans exited the stadium without any issues after the Europa League match, which Ajax emerged victorious with a 5–0 score, but incidents flared up in the city center overnight.
Israeli airlines El Al and Arkia confirmed that two rescue flights were en route to Amsterdam.
The conflict in Gaza has incited demonstrations in support of both factions throughout Europe and the United States, resulting in attacks on both Jewish and Arab individuals.
Amsterdam authorities were scheduled to hold a press briefing at noon (1100 GMT).
