Violence Erupts Following Ajax vs. Maccabi Tel Aviv Game, with Dispersed Gangs Armed with Knives and Clubs Attacking Israelis
On November 7, 2024, Amsterdam witnessed a surge of anti-Jewish violence as pro-Palestinian demonstrations escalated into riots, leaving the city’s Jewish community shaken and prompting widespread condemnation.
Protests Turn Violent
The unrest began with a large pro-Palestinian rally in Dam Square, where thousands gathered to protest Israel’s recent military actions in Gaza. While the demonstration started peacefully, tensions quickly escalated. A faction of protesters broke away, marching towards the Jewish quarter, chanting slogans and displaying anti-Semitic banners.
As the group approached the Portuguese Synagogue, one of Amsterdam’s historic Jewish landmarks, violence erupted. Rioters threw stones and bottles, shattering windows and defacing the building with graffiti. Nearby Jewish-owned businesses were also targeted, with several shops looted and vandalized.
Police Response
Amsterdam’s police force, initially unprepared for the scale of the violence, struggled to contain the situation. Reinforcements were called in, and after several hours, authorities managed to disperse the rioters using water cannons and tear gas. Dozens of arrests were made, and several officers sustained injuries during the clashes.
Community Impact
The Jewish community in Amsterdam, which has a history dating back centuries, was left reeling from the attacks. Rabbi Menachem Margolin, chairman of the European Jewish Association, expressed deep concern over the events, stating, “We are witnessing a record rise in antisemitism and the associated existential threat to Jewish lives in Europe.”
Local Jewish residents reported feeling unsafe in their neighborhoods. Sarah Cohen, a shop owner in the affected area, said, “I’ve lived here my whole life, and I’ve never seen anything like this. It’s terrifying.”
Political Reactions
Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte condemned the violence, stating, “There is no place for antisemitism in our society. The perpetrators of these heinous acts will be brought to justice.” Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema announced increased security measures in Jewish neighborhoods and places of worship, pledging to protect all citizens from hate-fueled violence.
Broader Context
The riots in Amsterdam are part of a disturbing trend of rising antisemitism across Europe. In June 2024, an “emergency summit” was held in Amsterdam to address the growing threat to Jewish communities. The summit concluded with a resolution demanding European decision-makers address the “record rise in antisemitism and the associated existential threat to Jewish lives in Europe.”
Calls for Action
In the aftermath of the riots, Jewish organizations are calling for stronger measures to combat antisemitism. The European Jewish Association has urged European governments to establish online mechanisms for reporting antisemitic incidents and to adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards such acts.
WHY has this not already BEEN “addressed” long since, in such a way that yesterday could not have happened??? Just a guess here, but it seems y’all are either siding covertly with the haters, or are too afraid of them to act against them… Both positions are dead wrong! This sounds more like a mini krystalnacht than a “program”, unless it WAS gov’t initiated…?