Janice R. Andrews
Nearly 100 people were taken into custody in Amsterdam during weekend demonstrations, following a citywide protest ban implemented by Mayor Femke Halsema. The ban, which will remain in effect until Thursday morning, was enacted after Maccabi Tel Aviv soccer fans faced antisemitic attacks in the city.
The unrest began when groups of young people, some on scooters, targeted Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters at various Amsterdam locations Thursday and Friday. These antisemitic assaults drew widespread condemnation.
Despite the ban, demonstrators gathered in Amsterdam’s central shopping area, with some chanting pro-Palestinian slogans. After a court upheld the demonstration ban against organizers’ appeals, police moved to disperse the crowds, detaining multiple protesters.
The situation was further complicated by reports of Maccabi fans removing a Palestinian flag and using anti-Arab rhetoric before their match with Ajax. The incidents led to several confrontations involving the team’s supporters.
Mayor Halsema described the attacks as “hit-and-run” incidents. Law enforcement has arrested over 60 suspects as part of their investigation. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar visited the Netherlands to meet with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, expressing concern over reports that attackers demanded to see passports to verify nationality.
The events have prompted increased security measures across Europe. In Paris, authorities are preparing extensive security arrangements for an upcoming France-Israel soccer match, planning to deploy thousands of police officers and security personnel. These incidents underscore the complex challenge of maintaining public safety while respecting protest rights during times of heightened international tensions.
