Key Takeaways:
– President Biden labels recent attacks on Israeli soccer fans in Amsterdam as despicable.
– The incident saw several young individuals assault Israeli soccer fans in a scooter hit-and-run.
– Dutch authorities are dedicated to holding those accountable for the assaults.
– Israeli President Isaac Herzog is seeking immediate evacuation of Israelis from Amsterdam.
– U.S. ambassador to Israel, Jack Lew, also expressed his condemnation of the attacks.
Anti-Semitic Assaults Inflict Widespread Outrage
President Biden, on Friday, condemned the recent anti-Semitic attacks on Israeli soccer fans in Amsterdam. He described the incident as “despicable,” creating echoes of a dark history where Jews faced widespread persecution. This staunch denouncement showcases the President’s commitment towards tackling racial and religious hatred worldwide.
Continued Conversations: International Response to the Incident
Staying continually updated, Biden has been in constant communication with Israeli and Dutch officials post the incident. The President expressed his gratitude towards the Dutch authorities for their commitment to bringing the attackers to justice. Biden stated, “We must relentlessly fight Antisemitism, wherever it emerges.” This statement highlights the firm standing of the United States against such forms of discrimination.
The Attack and Its Aftermath
The attacks took place a day prior to Biden’s statement, horrifyingly marked by young individuals assaulting Israeli soccer fans in hit-and-run scooter attacks. According to Dutch authorities, social media probably instigated these violent acts with calls to attack Jewish individuals.
Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema shared the terrifying details of the attack. The perpetrators kicked and punched the Israeli fans before evading the police. Following the incident, authorities detained ten suspects while five people received treatment for injuries. An additional 20-30 people reported light injuries. This conflict unfolded right before the Europa League match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax.
Israel Responds to the Attacks
Following these violent attacks, Israeli President Isaac Herzog demanded assertive action against the violence and anti-Semitism. Notably, Herzog sought assistance from King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, requesting the immediate evacuation of Israelis from Amsterdam, as per the presidential spokesperson.
In response to Herzog’s demands, King Willem-Alexander expressed remorse for failing the Jewish community during World War II and in light of these recent attacks.
Support from the International Community
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu communicated with Modi Ephraim, the Israeli ambassador to the Netherlands, about embedded dangers the free countries face, including the Netherlands. “This endangers not only us but also them,” he said, underscoring the need to tackle the threat to Israel.
Continuing the condemnation parade, US ambassador to Israel, Jack Lew, chided the attacks, expressing support for the wounded while hoping for their full recovery. Lew affirmed standing with Israeli and Dutch officials in opposing any form of anti-Semitic violence, emphasizing global unity in this predicament.
In conclusion, the anti-Semitic attacks on Israeli soccer fans have been met with rapid international condemnation, highlighting the world’s unwavering stance against such hateful acts. As President Biden aptly underlined, relentless action remains crucial in fighting anti-Semitism at every emergence.