Protest Ban Ignites Tension in Amsterdam Amid Soccer Violence
Tensions have escalated in Amsterdam following violent clashes during a soccer match between Israel's Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax. Dutch authorities have enforced a protest ban after incidents of antisemitism. Police detained several individuals in defiance of the ban, with injuries reported and property damaged.
- Country:
- Netherlands
Police in Amsterdam detained multiple individuals defying a protest ban in the aftermath of violent incidents involving Israeli soccer fans. The clashes occurred last week during a match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax, leading local authorities to impose restrictions on demonstrations.
Tensions remain high in the city, as confirmed by Reuters-verified footage showing Israeli fans engaging in antisemitic actions, including burning a Palestinian flag and chanting anti-Arab slogans. These developments drew criticism from international leaders such as Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
In light of the unrest, a protest ban was implemented until Thursday morning. Recent arrests followed the disruption caused when a tram in Amsterdam caught fire, likely from fireworks, with no reported injuries but significant property damage.
(With inputs from agencies.)