Israeli soccer fans attacked in Amsterdam, officials say; rescue planes deployed
USA Today5 days
Violence Erupts Against Israeli Soccer Fans in Amsterdam
Above: Fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv stage a pro-Israel demonstration at the Dam Square, lighting up flares and chanting slogans ahead of the UEFA Europa League match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax in Amsterdam, Netherlands on Nov. 7, 2024. Image copyright: Verity
The Facts
Israel on Friday sent two planes to bring back Maccabi Tel Aviv Football Club fans from Amsterdam after they faced "antisemitic attacks" in several parts of the city on Thursday night.
According to Dutch police, dozens of Israeli supporters were beaten and injured in hit-and-run attacks, with five people hospitalized. Video clips appeared to show people being chased and kicked; a car was also seen hitting passers-by at high speed.
The Spin
Pro-Israel narrative
For Israelis, the Israeli diaspora, and the Jewish community, the Amsterdam pogrom paints a bleak picture of the escalating dangers worldwide — emphasizing a resurgence of antisemitism. Often concealed as anti-Zionism, this hatred fuels disruptions, attacks, and a climate of rising hostility. Members of the Jewish community are increasingly marginalized, excluded, and subjected to intimidation and violence, often with state sponsorship. Urgent action is needed to confront this.
Pro-Palestine narrative
Israeli provocation is heightening risks for Jewish and Israeli communities worldwide, as recent violence in Amsterdam tragically demonstrates. Israel's aggressive policies under Netanyahu — especially in Gaza and the West Bank — have stirred resentment, reducing global sympathy despite valid security concerns. Actions by some Israeli supporters abroad feed this backlash — increasing anti-Israeli sentiments and tensions. The resulting insecurity endangers Jewish and Israeli lives globally as Palestinians continue to suffer.