Dutch police officers observed as individuals assembled during a modest pro-Palestinian rally on Dam Square in Amsterdam on November 9, 2024. Photo: AFP
Riot police in Amsterdam initiated the dispersal of a pro-Palestinian protest on Sunday after a court upheld a ban on demonstrations, following recent clashes involving Israeli soccer fans. Hundreds of protesters disregarded the prohibition and congregated in Dam Square, chanting for an end to violence in Gaza and 'Free Palestine.' However, after the local court confirmed the city authorities' ban, police intervened, ordering protesters to disperse. Several individuals were forcibly removed by police, according to a Reuters journalist.
The three-day ban, which began on Friday, was imposed after attacks on Israeli soccer supporters following a match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax Amsterdam on Thursday. At least five people were injured early on Friday as Israeli fans were assaulted by what Amsterdam mayor Femke Halsema termed 'antisemitic hit-and-run squads.' Prosecutors reported late on Saturday that four suspects remained in custody, including two minors, on suspicion of violent acts. Additionally, 40 individuals were fined for public disturbance, and 10 for offenses including vandalism. They anticipated further arrests.
A large group of Maccabi supporters was observed in a video posted online by news site Bender, arming themselves with sticks, pipes, and rocks, and clashing with opponents twice as they marched into the city after the match. The video was not verified by Reuters. Local police chief Olivier Dutilh informed the court on Sunday that the ban was still necessary as antisemitic incidents were also reported on Saturday night, according to local TV station AT5. Dutilh stated that people had been pushed out of taxis and intimidated by others demanding to see their passports on the streets. Reuters was unable to verify these incidents.
The Netherlands has experienced an increase in antisemitic incidents since the Gaza war began in October last year.
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