A plane carrying football supporters brought home from the Dutch capital by the Israeli government landed yesterday at Israel's Ben Gurion airport after the clashes on Thursday, which took place following a Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The mayor of Amsterdam, Femke Halsema, described an "outburst" of antisemitism with "hit and run" attacks on the visiting supporters. "Men on scooters crisscrossed the city looking for Israeli football fans. It was a hit and run. I can easily understand that this brings back memories of pogroms," Halsema said.
"Our city has been deeply damaged. Jewish culture has been deeply threatened. This is an outburst of antisemitism that I hope to never see again."
The leaders of Israel and the Netherlands condemned the attacks, while a leading Jewish group said the Dutch capital should be "deeply ashamed".
Police said yesterday they had launched "a major investigation into multiple Violent incidents" and that five people had been taken to hospital and 62 arrested. There was no evidence of "kidnappings or hostage takings" but police were "probing reports", they said.
Officials in Amsterdam said that in several places in the city, support-ers were attacked, abused and pelted with fireworks and that riot police had to intervene several times to protect Israeli supporters and escort them to hotels.
Residents and businesses in Amsterdam were shocked by what appeared to be organised small groups of locals chasing Israeli fans in Amsterdasz city centre.
This story is from the November 09, 2024 edition of The Guardian.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 09, 2024 edition of The Guardian.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
RFU rebels vow to fight on as bid to oust Sweeney stalls
A grassroots rebellion has accused the Rugby Football Union of \"postponing the inevitable,\" after the governing body rejected an attempt to force the removal of the chief executive, Bill Sweeney, amid the pay and bonuses scandal.
The Chosen One? Everton Turn to Moyes After Sacking Dyche Before Cup Tie
Everton's new owners are expected to offer David Moyes the chance to return to Goodison Park after sacking Sean Dyche hours before the FA Cup tie against Peterborough United.
Beto and Ndiaye lift Everton as caretakers sweep up after turmoil
Another new era for Everton, this one promising stability, and another managerial search is under way after the sacking of Sean Dyche.
Dyche dismissal a risk that puts team's need to stay up in sharp focus
Sacking is no shock given manager's dour football but successor has a perilous task. Could Moyes be the right fit?
'A massive draw': Salford ready for their biggest game
Karl Robinson's side travel less than five miles to face Manchester City with chance to make name for themselves
Regular guy can put the heart back in gormless machine
After Hollywood farce at Chelsea and two years out of game, rags-to-riches manager has seized chance to join 'family club' that he can improve immediately
Potter Calls For Unity To Revive West Ham In 'Ruthless' Top Flight
Graham Potter has checked in at a troubled West Ham with the message that only a united approach will keep them afloat in a \"ruthless\" Premier League.
Murray ready for outbursts on court from Djokovic
Andy Murray says he would be absolutely fine with receiving any angry outbursts of emotion or venting on-court from Novak Djokovic, his new coaching charge, as the two former longtime rivals prepare for their first tournament together on the same team at the Australian Open.
Aldcroft to captain Red Roses at home World Cup
Zoe Aldcroft has been installed as England women's captain for 2025, taking over from Marlie Packer, and is set to lead John Mitchell's side into the World Cup this year.
'I've been hooked': how shady line calls cloud practice games
Raducanu, Stephens and others on the perils of trusting rivals to make fair calls in umpire-free sessions
