In response to violent incidents targeting Israeli citizens in Amsterdam, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed the immediate dispatch of two rescue planes to the Dutch city. This action follows a series of attacks reportedly aimed at Israeli football fans, prompting Israeli officials to urge their citizens to remain in their hotel rooms. Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir described the incidents, which allegedly included displays of anti-Semitism, as “cruel” assaults based solely on the victims’ Jewish identity and national origin.
According to Amsterdam police, 57 individuals were detained as pro-Palestinian demonstrators attempted to reach the Johan Cruyff Arena, despite a prohibition on protests in the area. Police stated that the game between Ajax Amsterdam, a club historically associated with the Jewish community, and Maccabi Tel Aviv concluded without incident. However, clashes erupted across the city center during the night.
In coordination with the Dutch government, the Israeli military is preparing to deploy a rescue mission, utilizing cargo aircraft for transport and medical support. Geert Wilders, an anti-Muslim politician and leader of the largest party in the Dutch government, condemned the violence, expressing shame and calling the attacks "unacceptable."
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has also requested the Dutch government’s support to facilitate the safe travel of Israeli citizens to the airport. No official comment has been made by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Separately, Israel's parliament passed new legislation on Thursday enabling the deportation of family members of Palestinian attackers to the Gaza Strip or other locations for up to 20 years. This law applies to those with foreknowledge or express support for an act of terrorism. Though supported by Prime Minister Netanyahu’s Likud party and allies, legal experts predict it may be struck down by the Israeli Supreme Court, citing conflicts with constitutional and international rights protections.
Critics, including the Association for Civil Rights in Israel, argue that the law risks being seen as discriminatory, as it applies to Arab citizens and not to Jewish relatives of convicted terrorists. A second law passed allows for minors aged 12 to 14 convicted of terrorism-related crimes to be sentenced to prison, further fueling tensions regarding legal policies affecting the Palestinian population.
The Gaza Strip continues to endure intense bombardments as Israel's military campaign against Hamas enters its second year. Evacuation orders have spurred mass displacements, with over 2.3 million Gazans facing deteriorating conditions. Israeli forces have been pressing on northern areas like Jabalia and Beit Lahiya, with the goal of targeting Hamas strongholds. Health officials in Gaza report over 43,000 Palestinian deaths since the conflict began.
Despite concerns of ethnic cleansing raised by Palestinian officials, the Israeli military has denied any plans to prevent evacuees from returning to their homes. Aid efforts have continued, with 300 trucks from the United Arab Emirates arriving for distribution, although access to certain areas remains restricted due to ongoing military operations.