Israeli military launches rescue mission to Amsterdam after Europa League match clashes

Following violent clashes in Amsterdam after a Europa League match, Israel’s military is preparing an immediate “rescue mission” to the Dutch city to assist Israeli citizens, with around 10 Israeli fans reportedly injured.

“The mission will depart on cargo planes and will include medical and rescue crews,” an Israeli military spokesperson confirmed.

“The Home Front Command is leading the rescue operation in cooperation with the various branches of the [Israeli military] and the security forces,” he added, emphasizing that the effort is being carried out “in coordination with the Dutch government.”

The incident follows Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s directive to dispatch two rescue planes to Amsterdam to support Israeli fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv.

The team suffered a 5-0 loss to Ajax Amsterdam on Thursday night, sparking tensions that later escalated between Maccabi supporters and pro-Palestinian demonstrators. Israeli fans and police also clashed in the hours before the match.

Videos circulated on social media appear to show Israeli fans tearing down Palestinian flags displayed on city buildings.

Meanwhile, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has held talks with his Dutch counterpart, Caspar Veldkamp, about the attack against Israeli football fans in Amsterdam.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on X that Saar requested the Dutch government’s assistance in securing the departure of the fans from the hotels to the airport in Amsterdam.

“Minister Saar emphasised the seriousness with which Israel views the widespread violent attacks against its citizens throughout Amsterdam tonight,” the ministry said.