Israel Sends Planes to Amsterdam to Evacuate Soccer Fans After ‘Antisemitic’ Attack

Israel dispatched two planes to Amsterdam on Friday to bring back Israeli soccer fans who were caught in midst of an apparent antisemitic attack following a Europa League match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax Amsterdam. incident occurred after match, with videos emerging on Dutch media showing riot police clashing with demonstrators as some individuals shouted anti-Israel slogans.

According to Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema, supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv were "attacked, abused, and pelted with fireworks." Riot police intervened multiple times to protect fans and escort m to safety, including securing accommodations at nearby hotels. 

This attack is part of a wider surge in antisemitic incidents across Nerlands, particularly following October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. Since that event, Jewish schools and organizations in country have reported increased threats and hate mail.

In response to incident, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu 's office maintained direct contact with Dutch authorities. After assessing situation, it was decided that two Israeli military cargo planes, along with medical and rescue teams, would be sent to Amsterdam in coordination with Dutch government.

clashes began after Maccabi Tel Aviv-Ajax match, which Ajax won 5-0. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators, some of whom allegedly attacked Israeli fans, clashed with police as y tried to reach Johan Cruyff Arena. Although fans h left stium without incident, tensions escalated later in city center. 

An eyewitness video, verified by Reuters, showed men chasing and assaulting ors near Amsterdam's central station as police sirens blared. police later detained 57 suspects after altercations, which continued through night.

Israeli media suggested attacks appeared to be premeditated and resembled violent tactics used in October 7 Hamas assault. escalation of violence in Gaza, where over 43,000 Palestinians have died and more than 102,000 have been injured in Israel's military response, has triggered widespre protests across Europe, including in Amsterdam, where match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax h sparked outr among some.