November 8, 2024, New York, NY – The American Jewish Congress is deeply alarmed by the violent antisemitic incident that took place in Amsterdam, where Jewish and Israeli soccer fans were targeted in a deliberate act of hate. This attack is not an isolated outburst but a chilling example of a new variant of antisemitism focused on Israel and Israel’s right to exist and its right to defend itself. The perpetrators, emboldened by the rhetoric and ideology that have permeated some segments of society, unleashed their aggression on an Israeli soccer team and its fans, leaving fear and trauma in their wake. Such incidents threaten not only the safety of individuals but the very fabric of inclusive, democratic societies.

This event is part of a broader, disturbing pattern linked to extremist movements in both Europe and the Middle East that draw inspiration from groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. These organizations have long propagated messages of violence and antisemitism, rallying supporters to commit atrocities against Jews and Israelis worldwide. The October 7 invasion and massacre in Israel by Hamas has, tragically, become a rallying cry for such extremist ideologies, resulting in violence and threats targeting Jewish communities far beyond the borders of the Middle East.

This antisemitic pogrom highlights the need to counteract this dangerous narrative, ensuring that extremists are not emboldened to spread fear. We commend the Government of France and French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau for publicly rejecting to relocate or cancel an upcoming France-Israel soccer match because that would “amount to surrendering” to the antisemites.

We urge Governments, civil society, and leaders from all backgrounds to act decisively to protect Jewish communities. The defense against hatred and violence is a shared responsibility, and only through steadfast solidarity can we prevent further tragedies and build a future free from antisemitic hate.

(Photo Credit: Hollandse Hoogte/Shutterstock)

© 2020 American Jewish Congress.