NEW DELHI: A series of violent incidents occurred involving Israeli fans on Thursday night following a Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam.
According to Dutch authorities, five people were hospitalized, and dozens were arrested. The exact circumstances that led to the violence remain unclear.
The attacks were condemned by Dutch and Israeli leaders as antisemitic acts.
Videos circulated showing Israeli fans chanting anti-Arab slogans in the streets before the game, which may have contributed to the tensions.
Peter Holla, the acting police chief of Amsterdam, stated that the Israeli fans were "willfully attacked" by individuals on scooters, making it difficult for law enforcement to apprehend the perpetrators.
In response, Israel initially ordered two planes to bring the fans back home but later decided to assist them in arranging commercial flights. The Israeli foreign minister also travelled urgently to the Netherlands.
The incident has raised concerns about security measures for matches involving Israeli teams, as global tensions related to conflicts in the Middle East have overshadowed such events in multiple countries over the past year.
Dutch authorities have pledged to increase police patrols in Amsterdam and enhance security at Jewish institutions in the city, which has a significant Jewish community and historical significance.
Both Dutch and Israeli officials have condemned the violence and called for swift action against those responsible.
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