‘Free Palestine’ Rallies Turned Violent: Why Amsterdam Police Made Over 100 Arrests This Weekend
On Sunday afternoon, Amsterdam’s Dam Square became the center of an intense standoff as police arrested over 100 pro-Palestine demonstrators defying a recent protest ban. The ban, issued by the Amsterdam mayor and upheld by a district court, came as a response to escalating confrontations involving Israeli football fans who had clashed with local residents in the days prior.
The ban surprised many in Amsterdam, a city well-known for allowing public protests. However, the decision to limit demonstrations stemmed from violent incidents connected to a Europa League match between Ajax Amsterdam and Maccabi Tel Aviv. Israeli fans were reported to have chanted anti-Palestinian slogans, burned Palestinian flags, and damaged property in Dam Square, sparking outrage and retaliation from locals.
As police in riot gear moved in to disperse the crowd on Sunday, they encountered protesters chanting “Free Palestine” and holding placards demanding an end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Al Jazeera correspondent Step Vaessen reported that the aggressive police tactics left many tourists visibly shocked, with one group of visitors from India reportedly intimidated by searches due to their keffiyehs.
Amsterdam’s decision to enforce the ban highlighted an evolving challenge in the city’s handling of pro-Palestine demonstrations. This year, Amsterdam has hosted several Palestinian solidarity rallies, which have drawn significant support from local communities. The latest ban, however, reflects a growing unease among officials, who are concerned that gatherings may lead to further violence.
Many demonstrators are frustrated by what they perceive as unfair labeling by the authorities, arguing that their protests are directed at Israel’s actions rather than Jewish communities. Signs at the demonstration made this point clear, with one message reading, “We can fight anti-Semitism and genocidal Zionism at the same time.” Protesters voiced concern that the ban risks undermining their cause by casting them in a negative light.
The ban has now been extended until Thursday, with officials aiming to prevent further violence. Amsterdam police chief Peter Holla stressed that public safety remains a priority, though he acknowledged the difficulty in balancing security needs with the city’s commitment to free expression. As Amsterdam faces increasing tensions, the decision has opened a new debate on how to handle demonstrations fairly and effectively.