Israel sent on Friday two planes to bring back Maccabi Tel Aviv Football Club fans from Amsterdam after they faced "antisemitic attacks," reportedly sparked by a boisterous rally on Thursday during which "hundreds" of Maccabi fans 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 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 people 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.
For Israelis, the Israeli diaspora, and the Jewish community, the Amsterdam violencepogrom signifies a bleak picture of the escalating dangers worldwide, emphasizing a virulent resurgence of antisemitism. Often concealed as anti-Zionism, this hatred fuels disruptions, attacks, and a climate of rising hostility. Diaspora Jews are increasingly marginalized, excluded, and subjected to unrelenting intimidation and violence, often with state sponsorship. Urgent action is needed to confront this menace before it devastates Jewish life globally once again.
Israeli provocation is heightening risks for Jewish and Israeli communities worldwide, as recent violence in Amsterdam tragically demonstrates. Israel’s aggressive policies under Prime Minister Netanyahu, especially in Gaza and the West Bank, have stirred resentment, reducing global sympathy despite valid security concerns. Actions by some Israeli supporters abroad, like confrontational flag removals or rallying provocations, feed this backlash, increasing anti-Israeli sentiments and tensions. The resulting insecurity endangers Jewish and Israeli lives globally.