Israel Sends Rescue Planes to Amsterdam Following Antisemitic Attacks on Citizens
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the deployment of two rescue planes to Amsterdam following a violent incident targeting Israeli citizens, as reported by his office. The turmoil was linked to a football match where horrific acts of antisemitism were witnessed. In response, Israel's National Security Ministry has advised its citizens in Amsterdam to remain in their hotel rooms as a precaution.
Security Minister Itamar BenGvir expressed outrage over the brutality that Israeli football fans endured, stating in a post on social media platform X, 'Fans who went to watch a football game were attacked with unimaginable cruelty simply because of their Jewishness and Israeli identity.'
Local authorities in Amsterdam confirmed that 57 individuals were detained after pro-Palestinian demonstrators attempted to reach Johan Cruyff Stadium, violating a city-wide ban on protests in that area. While fans managed to leave the stadium without any immediate incidents, reports of clashes broke out in the city center later that night.
The Israeli military is now preparing to launch a rescue operation in coordination with the Dutch government. This operation will involve cargo aircraft and will include medical and rescue teams as part of the response to the distressing events following the football match between Ajax Amsterdam and Maccabi Tel Aviv, which ended with a score of 5-0 in favor of Ajax.
Disturbing video footage circulated on social media depicts crowds fleeing as a man is seen being assaulted, although The Guardian has not yet verified these videos.
In a proactive move, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar reached out to his Dutch counterpart Caspar Veldkamp to request assistance in ensuring the safe passage of Israeli citizens to the airport.
Deborah Lipstadt, the U.S. envoy on antisemitism, expressed her deep concern regarding the attacks and has called for a thorough investigation into the incidents.
As tensions escalate, the international community watches closely, raising alarm over the implications of such violence and the rising tide of antisemitism towards the Jewish community, both abroad and at home.
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