Five people were hospitalized and 62 arrested after violent attacks on Israeli fans after a soccer match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv, Amsterdam police said on Friday.

The incidents, described by authorities as “systematic violence” by anti-Semitic rioters, have drawn widespread condemnation, including from Dutch and Israeli leaders, as well as Jewish organizations.

Following the events, Israel’s Foreign Minister made an urgent diplomatic visit to the Netherlands, emphasizing concerns about growing security threats against Israeli equipment in several countries amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

Meanwhile, Amsterdam police have launched a major investigation into the incidents and promised to increase security, with additional police patrols planned in the coming days. Jewish institutions in the city, known for its large Jewish community and historical connections to Anne Frank, will also receive increased security measures.

Earlier, a statement issued by the Dutch capital’s municipality, police and prosecutor’s office said the night “was very turbulent with several incidents of violence targeting Maccabi supporters” after anti-Semitic rioters “actively sought out Israeli supporters.” to attack and assault them.” ‘

It was not immediately clear when and where the violence broke out after the game.

“In several places in the city, supporters were attacked. The police had to intervene several times, protecting Israeli supporters and escorting them to hotels. “Despite the massive police presence in the city, Israeli supporters have been injured,” the Amsterdam statement said.

“This outbreak of violence against Israeli supporters is unacceptable and cannot be defended in any way. “There is no excuse for the anti-Semitic behavior exhibited last night,” he added.

The violence broke out despite a ban on a pro-Palestinian demonstration near the football stadium imposed by Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema, who feared clashes would break out between protesters and supporters of the Israeli football club.

There were also incidents involving fans before the game. Dutch broadcaster NOS reported that a Palestinian flag was torn down from a building in the city center and riot police blocked pro-Palestinian supporters who were trying to march towards the Johan Cruyff Arena where the match was being played.

Israel initially ordered two planes to be sent to the Dutch capital to bring Israelis home, but the prime minister’s office later said it would work to “provide civil aviation solutions for the return of our citizens.”

A statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said that “the harsh images of the attack on our citizens in Amsterdam will not be overlooked” and that Netanyahu “views the horrific incident with the utmost seriousness.” He demanded that the Dutch government take “strong and swift measures” against those involved.

Netanyahu’s office added that he had called for greater security for the Jewish community in the Netherlands.

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said in X that he followed reports of violence “with horror.”

“Anti-Semitic attacks against Israelis completely unacceptable. “I am in close contact with everyone involved,” he added, saying he had spoken with Netanyahu and “emphasized that the perpetrators will be located and prosecuted. Now tranquility reigns in the capital.”

Security concerns related to hosting matches against visiting Israeli teams led the Belgian football federation to refuse to host a men’s Nations League match in September. That game against Israel was played in Hungary without fans in the stadium.

The violence in Amsterdam will lead to a security review at two matches this month organized by European soccer body UEFA. France plays Israel at the Stade de France near Paris next Thursday in the Nations League and Maccabi Tel Aviv’s next Europa League match is scheduled in Istanbul on November 28 against Besiktas.

Ajax won the Europa League match 5-0.