Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly condemned the recent antisemitic attacks against Jews in Amsterdam, labeling it as the worst pogrom in Europe this century. Netanyahu emphasized that such acts of violence will not be tolerated, vowing to stand against antisemitism and terrorism.
He drew a connection between the assault on Israeli citizens in Amsterdam and the legal attack on Israel at the International Court in The Hague, highlighting the dangerous antisemitism aimed at undermining the Jewish state's right to self-defense and the citizens' right to life.
Netanyahu's remarks coincided with the anniversary of Kristallnacht, a dark chapter in European history where Jews were targeted solely for their identity. The recent events in Amsterdam echoed the brutality of that night, with antisemitic rioters attacking Jews on the streets.
The Israeli leader urged governments worldwide to take decisive action against such attacks, emphasizing the ripple effect of violence that extends beyond the Jewish community.
Meanwhile, Dutch authorities faced criticism for their handling of the situation, with reports indicating a lack of arrests during the violent incidents. The Party for Freedom leader, Geert Wilders, called for the resignation of Amsterdam's mayor over the failure to address the antisemitic violence.
Amidst the chaos, acts of bravery emerged as Rabbi and volunteers from the Chabad House in Amsterdam, along with an Israeli Druze man, assisted in protecting and aiding Israeli victims. The coordinated antisemitic attacks in a city with a historical connection to Anne Frank's tragic story underscored the need for unity against hatred.
King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands acknowledged the failure to protect the Jewish community, expressing regret over the repeated incidents of antisemitism. The challenges faced by the Jewish population in Amsterdam, coupled with the growing Muslim presence in the city, raised concerns about the effectiveness of law enforcement in safeguarding vulnerable communities.
The events in Amsterdam serve as a stark reminder of the persistent threat of antisemitism and the importance of collective action to combat hatred and discrimination.
