Israeli and Dutch leaders strongly condemned the anti-Semitic violence that unfolded in Amsterdam on the night of November 8, 2024, following a Europa League football match between Maccabi Tel-Aviv and Ajax. The clashes, which occurred after Ajax’s 5-0 victory, left a trail of destruction in the city’s center, prompting Israel to dispatch rescue planes to bring its citizens back home.

Dutch police confirmed the arrest of 57 individuals related to the violence, though no further details were immediately available. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof expressed his outrage, calling the attacks “completely unacceptable” and reaffirmed his government‘s commitment to bringing those responsible to justice. He also spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to assure him that the perpetrators would face prosecution.

Netanyahu responded by sending rescue flights to Amsterdam, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. His office reported that he requested increased security for the Jewish community in the Netherlands, following the “premeditated anti-Semitic attack” on Israeli citizens.

Social media posts and news reports indicated that the clashes, which began around midnight, included multiple fights and acts of vandalism. Dutch authorities deployed large numbers of police vehicles, and reinforcements were called in to control the situation. Police were seen escorting fans back to their hotels as tensions remained high.

The Israeli embassy in the United States issued a statement, labeling the violence an “ambush” against Maccasbi Tel-Aviv supporters. “A mob targeted innocent Israelis,” the embassy said, urging Dutch authorities to protect all Israeli and Jewish citizens in Amsterdam.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog joined the call for action, likening the incident to a “pogrom” and calling on the Dutch government to protect Israelis under attack. The embassy’s statement further urged Israeli citizens to stay inside their hotels and avoid displaying Israeli or Jewish symbols due to the heightened threat.

In response, Israeli authorities coordinated a “rescue mission” involving cargo planes, medical teams, and rescue personnel to evacuate Israeli fans trapped in the city. Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also requested the Dutch government’s assistance to ensure the safe transport of Israeli citizens to the airport.

The clashes were exacerbated by rising anti-Israeli sentiment and anti-Semitic actions worldwide, spurred by the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Lebanon. The violence erupted as Amsterdam had already taken steps to secure public spaces by relocating a pro-Palestinian rally scheduled near the stadium.