Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof announced that he will not attend the COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan, choosing instead to remain in the Netherlands following recent violent clashes in Amsterdam between Israeli soccer fans and pro-Palestinian demonstrators. The incident, which took place after a Europa League match where Ajax defeated Maccabi Tel Aviv 5-0, is under investigation, with authorities looking into whether warning signs from Israel were overlooked.
In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Schoof cited the “major social impact” of Thursday night’s violence as the reason for his decision, noting that discussions on the issue will take place at the cabinet meeting on Monday. While Prime Minister Schoof will be absent from COP29, Dutch Climate Minister Sophie Hermans will attend the climate summit, which runs from November 11 to 22, with a climate envoy stepping in for Schoof.
Amsterdam prosecutors reported that four suspects remain detained on charges related to the violent unrest, including two minors, while 40 individuals were fined for causing public disturbances, and 10 others faced penalties for offenses such as vandalism. Officials anticipate additional arrests as investigations continue.
The events have drawn attention beyond the Netherlands, with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar visiting the country to meet with Prime Minister Schoof and Dutch officials. Saar also held discussions with Justice Minister David van Weel and Geert Wilders, leader of the far-right Freedom Party, upon his arrival. Justice Minister van Weel informed parliament that authorities are examining whether the attacks were organized and if they may have been motivated by antisemitism.
Social media videos capturing the unrest revealed confrontations between riot police and demonstrators, with some individuals shouting anti-Israeli slogans. Additional footage showed Maccabi Tel Aviv fans using anti-Arab slurs prior to the match. As tensions escalated, Israel deployed planes to bring supporters home from the Netherlands.
The Palestine Football Association (PFA) condemned the violence, emphasizing that “violence and hate in all their manifestations have no place in sports.” In response to rising tensions, Amsterdam authorities imposed a weekend ban on public demonstrations and granted police expanded stop-and-search powers.
In recent weeks, antisemitic incidents have surged in the Netherlands amid the ongoing Gaza conflict, with multiple Jewish organizations and schools reporting threats and hate mail. Political leaders, including Prime Minister Schoof, have condemned the violence as antisemitic, stressing the need for swift justice.