Amsterdam, Netherlands — Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has raised alarm over a series of violent, antisemitic attacks targeting Israeli tourists in Amsterdam, branding the incidents a “planned and organized pogrom.” Bennett took to social media on Sunday, citing disturbing videos and evidence he received, which reveal brutal attacks on Israeli sports tourists.
“Urgent call for action! I am receiving videos and evidence of Israeli sports-tourists in Amsterdam being brutally attacked,” Bennett stated. “What I see seems to be life-threatening: innocent people being run over, beaten, driven into a river, and more.” Bennett appealed to Dutch authorities to intervene, warning of potential serious injuries. “I call on the Dutch authorities to act immediately to prevent injuries and worse. This seems like a planned and organized pogrom in Amsterdam.”
The allegations and reports of violence have sparked outrage and concern in the Netherlands. In response, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof condemned the acts, vowing accountability for those responsible. “I have been following the news from Amsterdam and am horrified by the antisemitic attacks on Israeli citizens. This is completely unacceptable,” Schoof said on X (formerly Twitter).
Schoof also confirmed that he is actively involved with relevant authorities to ensure justice. “I am in close contact with all parties involved and have just spoken to Israeli PM Netanyahu by phone to stress that the perpetrators will be identified and prosecuted,” he stated. According to Schoof, the situation in Amsterdam has since stabilized, though investigations continue.
These incidents arrive amid heightened tensions globally, where recent violence in the Middle East has triggered waves of antisemitism and hate crimes in various European cities. In light of Bennett’s call for immediate action, the Dutch government faces pressure to demonstrate a swift response against what Bennett described as “orchestrated acts of hatred.”
