Israel Sends Rescue Teams to Amsterdam After Violent Attacks on Citizens Following Football Game

DY365
DY365
Published: November 8,2024 02:34 PM
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Israel Sends Rescue Teams to Amsterdam After Violent Attacks on Citizens Following Football Game

November 8, 2024: In response to a violent attack against Israeli citizens in Amsterdam following a football match, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the immediate dispatch of two rescue planes to the Dutch capital. The move comes after several Israelis were reportedly targeted by violent assailants in what Israeli officials have described as an attack motivated by anti-Semitic and anti-Israel sentiment.



According to Netanyahu's office, the rescue mission is set to include medical and rescue teams and will be carried out in coordination with the Dutch authorities. The Israeli military confirmed the deployment of cargo aircraft to facilitate the operation. "We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens abroad," Netanyahu said in a statement.



The violence occurred following the high-profile match between Ajax Amsterdam, traditionally associated with the Jewish community, and Israel's Maccabi Tel Aviv. Ajax defeated Maccabi Tel Aviv 5-0, but tensions in the city escalated as pro-Palestinian demonstrators clashed with police. Authorities in Amsterdam had forbidden protests near the Johan Cruyff stadium, but despite this, unrest spread through the city center during the night. Local police reported the arrest of 57 individuals after disturbances erupted following the match.



Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir condemned the attack in a post on X, describing it as an assault on Jewish citizens "just because of their Jewishness and Israeliness." He labeled the incident as "unimaginable cruelty."



In light of the violence, Israel's National Security Ministry issued an advisory to Israeli citizens in Amsterdam, urging them to remain in their hotel rooms until further notice.



While the situation is still unfolding, Israel's military and diplomatic teams are working closely with Dutch officials to secure the safety of their nationals and facilitate the rescue operation. The incident has sparked further concern over the rise of anti-Semitic sentiment and violence in European cities, particularly during politically charged events such as football games involving Israeli teams.