The Israeli Diaspora Ministry had already expected a violent protest before the football match started in Amsterdam. There were plans to harm a particular fan who worked for the Israeli Border Guard, Israeli media reported. The Dutch authorities have been informed about this.
The same applies to a planned attack on a hotel where Israeli football supporters were staying overnight. About 200 demonstrators tried to reach the Johan Cruijiff Arena on Thursday evening. There, football club Ajax Amsterdam played against Maccabi Tel Aviv. After the match, which Ajax won 5-0, there were riots at various locations in the center of the Dutch capital (see video above).
“Fans were besieged, abused and fireworks were thrown at them,” says Mayor Femke Halsema. It has not yet been explained in detail from which side the violence came. Photos show Palestinian flags. Authorities called on all victims to contact police and report the incident.
Five people taken to hospital
The Israeli Foreign Ministry reported that ten people were injured. Five of them had to be taken to hospital, but were now able to leave. Reports of three missing Israelis have not been confirmed. For example, the mobile phones of those affected may have been stolen or not working for technical reasons. The police were also unable to confirm reports of a possible hostage situation.
So far, 62 people have been arrested. The Israeli Ministry of Diaspora is said to have been aware of plans such as an attack on a hotel in advance and informed the Dutch authorities. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on the Dutch security forces to take decisive action against the perpetrators of violence. The new Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Saar announced that he would travel to Amsterdam and, among other things, meet his counterpart.
Here you can see a statement from the Israeli Foreign Minister.
UEFA trusts the authorities
Many European politicians, including Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer and European Minister Karoline Edstadtler (both ÖVP), also strongly condemned the incidents. European football’s governing body UEFA also condemned the “acts of violence”: “We trust that the relevant authorities will identify and charge as many people as possible responsible for these actions,” the report said in a statement. UEFA itself is investigating reports, gathering evidence and will consider steps.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
