In a swift response to a “very violent incident” targeting Israeli nationals in Amsterdam, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the immediate dispatch of two rescue planes to assist affected citizens, his office announced on Friday.
The alarming event unfolded when Israeli fans, reportedly in the Netherlands to attend a football match, faced unprovoked aggression. Israel’s National Security Ministry has issued an urgent advisory for its citizens in Amsterdam to remain in their hotel rooms until further notice. “Fans who went to see a football game encountered anti-Semitism and were attacked with unimaginable cruelty just because of their Jewishness and Israeliness,” Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir shared on X.
While the specific details of the attack remain unclear, the incident has sparked immediate diplomatic engagement. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has reached out to his Dutch counterpart, Caspar Veldkamp, requesting assistance to ensure the safe passage of Israeli citizens to the airport. The Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of Dutch authorities’ cooperation in safeguarding those affected.
The unexpected violence has raised concerns about the safety of Israeli tourists abroad and highlights the persistent challenges of anti-Semitism in Europe. As Israeli authorities mobilize to bring their citizens home safely, the incident underscores the critical need for international collaboration in combating hate crimes.
Travelers in the region are advised to stay alert and follow updates from official channels. The Israeli embassy in the Netherlands is reportedly coordinating with local law enforcement to monitor the situation closely.
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Israel dispatches rescue planes after Amsterdam attack on citizens
cgtn.com
