Israeli hooligans behind Amsterdam violence, says city councilor
Israeli hooligans are being blamed for instigating violence in Amsterdam, according to city Councilor Jazie Veldhuyzen.
The incident, which erupted last Wednesday night, began when fans of Israeli soccer team Maccabi attacked homes displaying Palestinian flags and Free Palestine supporters.
Veldhuyzen emphasized the need for an impartial investigation, criticizing the initial labeling of the violence as antisemitic.
He said Maccabi fans, including former Israeli soldiers, were involved in violent chants and actions, such as mocking children killed by Israel in Gaza and encouraging the Israeli army to commit more violence.
Despite the risks, he said, police only intervened to protect the hooligans, not the local residents.
The violence intensified around the Ajax-Maccabi Tel Aviv match, with Maccabi fans removing Palestinian flags and assaulting Arab taxi drivers.
Tensions led to the arrest of 62 people as violence escalated, which the Israeli government later framed as attacks on Israelis.