Tensions escalated in Amsterdam on Thursday night as Israeli football fans clashed with apparent pro-Palestinian protesters before and after a Europa League match. The game, held at the Johan Cruyff Arena, pitted Maccabi Tel Aviv against Ajax Amsterdam, with Ajax securing a dominant 5-0 victory.
The confrontations unfolded outside the main stadium, home to Ajax Amsterdam, both before and after the match. Israeli fans, who had traveled to Amsterdam to support Maccabi Tel Aviv, reportedly engaged with local residents and pro-Palestinian protesters. The incident followed days of rising tensions, with heightened emotions surrounding political symbols and rival slogans.
City Council Member Speaks Out on Tensions
Amsterdam city council member Jazie Veldhuyzen shared insights into the escalating situation. According to Veldhuyzen, the violence began when Israeli fans allegedly targeted homes displaying Palestinian flags. “They began attacking houses of people in Amsterdam with Palestinian flags, so that’s actually where the violence started,” he said, noting that local residents mobilized in response.
Social Media Footage Captures Rising Tensions
Social media played a significant role in documenting the clashes. Videos circulated online showing Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters taking down a Palestinian flag from a building, sparking anger among pro-Palestinian supporters. Additional footage depicted Maccabi fans chanting anti-Arab slogans and Israeli nationalistic messages, amplifying the tension in the city.
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Police Prepared for Political Tensions
Amsterdam police anticipated potential confrontations and had increased vigilance due to politically charged incidents earlier in the week. In a social media statement on Thursday, police noted that they were prepared for possible disruptions after reports surfaced of Maccabi Tel Aviv fans actively removing Palestinian flags from local buildings. Officers were stationed around the stadium and city center but struggled to fully contain the confrontations.
Report from Al Jazeera Correspondent
Al Jazeera’s reporter Step Vaessen, reporting from Amsterdam, highlighted the buildup of tensions that led to the clashes. “Hundreds of supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv came to Amsterdam, held a very vocal rally in the main square before the incident, waving Israeli flags, and also took down a Palestinian flag,” she said. Vaessen added that the display of Israeli flags and anti-Arab chants contributed to the escalating situation, with local residents expressing frustration over the provocations.
Community and Political Reactions
The confrontations in Amsterdam have prompted strong reactions from local politicians and community leaders. Many emphasized the need for maintaining peace and respecting diverse perspectives. The local government in Amsterdam is expected to address the incident, with council members calling for strategies to prevent future politically motivated clashes in public spaces.
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