HRF Files Urgent Complaint Against Maccabi Supporters’ Rampage in Amsterdam: Calls for Swift Justice

Maccabi Supporters vandalizing property and removing a Palestinian flag from a home in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam, November 9, 2024 – The Hind Rajab Foundation, in partnership with the March 30 Movement, has taken an urgent legal step to combat rising instances of hate-fueled violence in Europe. Following disturbing incidents in Amsterdam, the two organizations have submitted a formal criminal complaint to the Amsterdam Public Prosecutor’s Office, seeking immediate action against supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv who have reportedly engaged in acts of incitement, violence, and vandalism.

Amsterdam, November 9, 2024 – The Hind Rajab Foundation, in partnership with the March 30 Movement, has taken an urgent legal step to combat rising instances of hate-fueled violence in Europe. Following disturbing incidents in Amsterdam, the two organizations have submitted a formal criminal complaint to the Amsterdam Public Prosecutor’s Office, seeking immediate action against supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv who have reportedly engaged in acts of incitement, violence, and vandalism.

​This complaint, filed by attorney Mr. Haroon Raza on behalf of the Hind Rajab Foundation, cites multiple violent events that occurred in the streets of Amsterdam beginning on November 5, 2024. These actions reportedly include:

Incitement to Hatred and Genocidal Rhetoric: Maccabi supporters have been documented chanting slogans that incite violence against Palestinians and Arabs, especially children, echoing genocidal rhetoric that aligns with the ongoing atrocities in Gaza.

Assaults on Citizens and Targeted Hate Speech: Pro-Palestinian individuals were reportedly attacked by Maccabi supporters for displaying Palestinian symbols, leading to physical harm and creating an atmosphere of fear.

Vandalism and Property Destruction: Numerous incidents involved Maccabi supporters destroying Palestinian symbols and personal property, illustrating a targeted campaign of intimidation and hostility.

The incidents in question occurred in highly public areas of Amsterdam, with supporters allegedly engaging in coordinated displays of hate and violence. Despite the presence of law enforcement, there was a conspicuous absence of arrests or intervention, a failure that the Hind Rajab Foundation and March 30 Movement have condemned.

“The Hind Rajab Foundation is committed to ending impunity for those who commit or promote violence, particularly in a context that threatens vulnerable groups like children,” said Dyab Abou Jahjah, Chairman of the Hind Rajab Foundation and the March 30 Movement. “The inflammatory chants and violent acts witnessed in Amsterdam must be addressed urgently. We call on Dutch authorities to uphold the law and demonstrate that incitement and violence have no place in our society.”

This urgent complaint underscores the need for swift action by the Amsterdam Public Prosecutor. The Hind Rajab Foundation and the March 30 Movement urge the authorities to secure social media footage, gather surveillance evidence, and investigate all responsible parties to bring perpetrators to justice.

About the Hind Rajab Foundation and March 30 Movement

The Hind Rajab Foundation, founded as a branch of the March 30 Movement, is dedicated to holding individuals and organizations accountable for crimes against humanity, particularly in the context of Palestinian rights. The foundation conducts thorough investigations, compiles evidence, and submits legal complaints on both national and international levels. Together with the March 30 Movement, the foundation aims to shift narratives and support justice for Palestine through sustained advocacy and legal action.