Amsterdam

The media is almost universally describing the events in Amsterdam as anti-Semitic; however, if one looks at the timeline in this NY Times article, it's anything but - before and after a Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv, tensions and violence erupted due to a combination of provocative actions and politically charged responses. The timeline is there and one has to read the entire article to piece it together.

This timeline is starting to creep into other reporting, such as the BBC, but it's hidden deep into the article.

Here's the timeline that's now emerging:

• Pre-Match Events: Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters engaged in provocative behaviour, including chanting anti-Arab slogans, tearing down Palestinian flags, and burning one. A taxi was also attacked. These actions coincided with a pro-Palestinian demonstration elsewhere in the city, creating a charged atmosphere.
• Match Day: Clashes occurred between Maccabi supporters, local residents, and activists in central Amsterdam, escalating tensions further. During the match, Ajax won 5-0, and no major incidents were reported inside the stadium.
• Post-Match Violence: Following the game, confrontations targeted Israeli supporters, some of which appeared politically motivated, stemming from the earlier provocations. The violence resulted in injuries and arrests, with the Israeli government labelling it antisemitic. However, the evidence suggests the motivations were more anti-Israel, driven by the actions of the supporters and their symbolism, rather than racial or religious hatred.

In summary, the violence was primarily instigated by the provocative actions of Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters and was met with politically charged responses. While some have labelled the events anti-Semitic, the motivations seem more closely tied to opposition to Israeli symbols and actions rather than hatred of Jews as a group.

There's no denying that the Israeli government, and many Israeli institutions, are describing criticism of Israel as anti-Semitic as a way of silencing criticism. Critics contend that this conflation can sometimes be a deliberate strategy to delegitimise opposition. Whether seen as gaslighting or a defensive response to genuine threats, the distinction between critiquing Israel and anti-Semitism is vital for fostering honest and productive discussions.