Israeli Football Fans Recount Violent Attack in Amsterdam

Israeli football fans in Amsterdam have detailed a harrowing attack that left some with severe injuries, including broken noses. Adi Reuben, 24, described being confronted and assaulted by a group of over 10 men as he and his friends were returning to their hotel. The attackers reportedly shouted phrases like “Jewish, Jewish, IDF, IDF,” referencing the Israeli military.

According to Reuben, the assailants, riding scooters, engaged in what police described as “hit and run” tactics that proved difficult to control. “They started to mess with me and I realised I had to run, but it was dark and I didn’t know where to go,” Reuben recounted. He fell and was attacked on the ground, enduring kicks for about a minute before the group left. “They weren’t afraid of anything,” he noted, adding that his face was bloodied, and he suffered a painful broken nose.

Reuben refrained from visiting a local hospital, citing concerns that some taxi drivers might be involved in the violence. Instead, he planned to fly to Israel for medical attention. He suggested that the assault seemed premeditated.

Other Israeli fans reported being asked for identification when targeted. Amsterdam police chief Peter Holla acknowledged the challenges of preventing such incidents, despite a strong police presence.