Israeli soccer fans attacked in Amsterdam, officials say; rescue planes deployed
USA TodayNOV 20 2024
Israel Friday sent two planes to bring back Maccabi Tel Aviv Football Club fans from Amsterdam after they faced "antisemitic attacks," reportedly sparked by their boisterous rally Thursday during which "hundreds" of them waved Israeli flags and took down a Palestinian one.
The violence followed Maccabi's Europa League match against Ajax, which the latter won 5-0. Dutch authorities said the antisemitic rioters "actively sought out Israeli supporters" who were "ambushed." Sixty-two people have been arrested in connection with the disturbance.
Many Israeli supporters were injured with five persons hospitalized with injuries following the attack in several parts of Amsterdam, according to Dutch police. Video clips reportedly showed many being chased and kicked; a car was also seen hitting passers-by at high speed.Many Israeli supporters were injured with five persons hospitalized following the attack in several parts of Amsterdam, according to Dutch police. Video clips reportedly showed many being chased and kicked; a car was also seen hitting passers-by at high speed.
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The situation involved multiple groups that were difficult to distinguish from each other, with most wearing dark clothes, making it challenging to identify specific perpetrators. Law enforcement took preventive measures by increasing police presence and intervening to prevent confrontations. The police responded by making numerous arrests to maintain public order.