Amsterdam Violence Sparks Antisemitism Concerns

Amsterdam's Dam Square saw the arrest of dozens of anti-Israel protesters defying a ban on demonstrations after violent attacks on Israeli soccer fans, widely condemned as antisemitic, following a match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax. Maccabi fans were targeted by local gangs, involving 'scooter hit-and-runs' and leaving several Israelis injured. Amsterdam's Mayor Femke Halsema banned the protests, with comparisons drawn to historical antisemitic pogroms amid footage of anti-Arab chants by Israeli fans and subsequent attacks. Israeli and Dutch officials have condemned the events and called for investigations into the lack of police protection for Israeli fans. The situation highlights ongoing concerns about rising antisemitism in Europe and the need for stronger security measures at public events.