Footage from social media depicts chaos in Amsterdam, with Palestinian flags torn down, crowds fleeing, and a man assaulted, coinciding with Ajax’s match against Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Europa League.
In the aftermath, dozens of arrests were made following reports that antisemitic rioters were actively seeking out Israeli supporters to attack. Dutch authorities confirmed that 62 individuals were detained in the Netherlands’ capital amid the escalating disorder surrounding the football match. This violence resulted in at least five people requiring hospitalization due to injuries sustained during the altercations as Ajax triumphed over Maccabi Tel Aviv with a score of 5-0 at the Johan Cruyff Arena.
UEFA, the governing body for European football, responded to these shocking developments with a strong statement. They “strongly condemned the incidents and acts of violence that occurred on Thursday night in the city of Amsterdam before and after the UEFA Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv.” UEFA expressed their confidence that the relevant authorities would identify those responsible for these acts and implement charges against them. They also assured that they would review all official reports, gather available evidence, and assess further actions necessary based on their regulatory framework.
Ajax issued their own statement, expressing horror at the events that unfolded after what had been a well-enjoyed football match. They conveyed their gratitude to all parties involved in creating a positive atmosphere in their stadium while condemning the violence that erupted in the center of Amsterdam that night.
In an initial response to the violence, Israeli officials announced plans to dispatch military planes to vacate fans from Amsterdam, but later reversed this decision, opting instead to send two commercial flights to ensure the safe return of their supporters.
Footage circulating on social media further illustrates the turmoil, showcasing football supporters pulling down a Palestinian flag in central Amsterdam, while anti-Arab chants echoed through the streets. Other videos depicted crowds engaged in tumult, with one alarming clip showing a man being beaten.
A joint statement from Amsterdam police and prosecutors characterized the evening as “very turbulent,” highlighting multiple incidents of violence directed at Maccabi supporters. It reported that in various locations throughout the city, fans were unjustly targeted and assaulted, necessitating police intervention to protect Israeli supporters and escort them safely to hotels. Despite a considerable police presence, some Israeli supporters still suffered injuries.
The statement condemned the outburst of violence, categorically declaring it “unacceptable” and asserting that there is no justification for the antisemitic behavior displayed by those rioters who actively sought out Israeli supporters with intent to harm.
The disorder began well before the kick-off, with arrests made hours in advance as Israeli supporters gathered in the city center. Further arrests occurred in response to a planned demonstration opposing the arrival of Maccabi Tel Aviv’s players, as well as post-match chaos where hooligans targeted Israeli fans.
While Dutch police acknowledged reports of a possible hostage situation, they confirmed no such occurrence had been verified, clarifying that individuals previously reported missing had been located.
In the afternoon leading up to the match, Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters congregated in Dam Square, where roughly ten arrests were made for various offenses, including public disorder. Concurrently, a pro-Palestinian demonstration proceeded at Anton de Komplein square, situated approximately a 15-minute walk from the Johan Cruyff Arena. Local authorities had intervened to prevent the demonstration from happening near the football ground.
Attempts by part of this demonstrative group to approach the arena were thwarted by riot police, who faced aggressive responses including being pelted with fireworks. Ultimately, around 30 individuals were arrested in or near the arena, primarily for public order violations and for carrying or igniting fireworks.
The police reported that fans exited the arena without any incident following the match, yet clashes erupted in the city center as the night unfolded, with further videos capturing the chaos of crowds fleeing down the streets alongside continued reports of violence.
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