What's happened
Following a Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv, violence erupted in Amsterdam, leading to 62 arrests and multiple injuries. The city's mayor banned all demonstrations after anti-Semitic incidents and clashes involving fans. Pro-Palestinian protests were also suppressed amid rising tensions.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Metro, the violence was sparked by Maccabi Tel Aviv fans chanting anti-Arab slogans and attacking Palestinian symbols, leading to a series of retaliatory assaults. SBS reported that Amsterdam's mayor, Femke Halsema, described the situation as 'unbearable' and emphasized the city's efforts to maintain order. The Palestine Football Association criticized the Israeli fans for inciting violence, stating that their actions contributed to the unrest. This multifaceted narrative illustrates the complexity of the situation, with both sides blaming each other for the escalation of violence.
How we got here
Tensions have escalated in Amsterdam following the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, which resulted in significant casualties. The recent football match has become a flashpoint for ongoing hostilities between Israeli and Palestinian supporters.
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Amsterdamsche Football Club Ajax, also known as AFC Ajax, Ajax Amsterdam, or simply Ajax, is a Dutch professional football club based in Amsterdam, that plays in the Eredivisie, the top tier in Dutch football.
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Femke Halsema is a Dutch politician and filmmaker. On 27 June 2018, she was appointed Mayor of Amsterdam and began serving a six-year term on 12 July 2018. She is the first woman to hold the position on a non-interim basis.
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