Israel sends planes to Amsterdam to rescue fans – DW – 11/08/2024

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent two rescue planes to the Netherlands on Friday (11/08/2024) following the incidents with Tel Aviv Maccabi fans in Amsterdam, in which dozens of people were detained.

Clashes broke out in the Dutch city center at night after the Europa League match between Ajax and the Israeli club, which the local team won (5–0).

“The prime minister ordered the immediate dispatch of two rescue planes to assist our citizens,” Netanyahu’s office said in a statement.

According to local media AT5, there were several incidents of vandalism and fighting in the Dutch capital, leading police to escort Israeli fans to their hotel.

This media said, “A large number of mobile unit vehicles are present and additional forces have been called. The youth have also provoked the police.”

Citing the ANP press agency, Amsterdam police said they made 57 arrests during the day.

By noon, hundreds of Israeli fans had gathered in Dam Square in the center of Amsterdam, surrounded by a large police force, before moving to the Johan Cruyff Stadium.

A pro-Palestine rally was planned next to the stadium, which was eventually moved to a more distant area by the mayor’s office for security reasons.

GS (AFP, Reuters, dpa)