Riots sparked by pro-Palestinian protesters marred the Europa Cup tie between Ajax and visiting Macabi Tel Aviv Thursday night.
Police had clashed with demonstrators protesting against the visit of the Israeli team leading to unrest around the Ajax Arena and several parts of Amsterdam. Though the match went ahead with Ajax beating Maccabi 5-0, there was tension and concern about the safety of the visiting team and their fans.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday ordered two planes be sent to the Netherlands to bring home football fans following the violent clashes.
Netanyahu’s office said in a statement on X that “two rescue planes” were being sent “to immediately assist our citizens.”
“The harsh pictures of the assault on our citizens in Amsterdam will not be overlooked,” the prime minister’s office went on to say.
“Prime Minister Netanyahu views the horrifying incident with utmost gravity and demands that the Dutch government and security forces take vigorous and swift action against the rioters, and ensure the safety of our citizens,” the statement read.
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said he spoke with Netanyahu and promised the perpetrators would be prosecuted. The police say 57 persons that been arrested.
