Dutch authorities have disclosed alarming details to their British counterparts regarding the conduct of Maccabi Tel Aviv football fans during a November 2024 match in Amsterdam. According to intelligence reports, over 200 fans were linked to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), with hundreds more described as ‘experienced fighters,’ ‘highly organized,’ and ‘intent on causing serious violence.’ This revelation has sparked significant controversy, particularly in light of the recent ban on Maccabi fans from attending a match in Birmingham, England, which was criticized by the British government as antisemitic. The ban, upheld by West Midlands Police and Birmingham’s safety advisory group, was based on Dutch police reports detailing the fans’ violent behavior in Amsterdam. The assessment highlighted incidents of targeted hate crimes, including assaults on Muslim taxi drivers, vandalism, and clashes with police. British MP Jeremy Corbyn condemned the government’s handling of the issue, accusing officials of distorting facts for political gain. Meanwhile, Birmingham Police have emphasized their commitment to ensuring public safety during the upcoming match, amid planned protests by pro-Palestine groups. The situation underscores the complex intersection of sports, politics, and public safety.
Exclusive: Violent Maccabi fans were organised fighters ‘linked to IDF’, UK police found
