NEW YORK – World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder issued the following statement in reaction to last night's violent attacks targeting Jewish supporters of the Maccabi Tel Aviv soccer team in Amsterdam:
“The World Jewish Congress strongly condemns the vicious attacks on Israeli soccer fans in Amsterdam. This unprovoked violence—resulting in serious injuries and reports of missing persons—has not only shaken the Israeli and Dutch Jewish communities but underscores the global resurgence of antisemitism that continues to metastasize across societies worldwide.
“We extend our deepest solidarity to the victims of this despicable act and to their families, who are enduring the pain and anguish of an unspeakable assault. We commend Dutch officials for recognizing the severity of this attack and for their swift commitment to pursuing justice. This response is essential to demonstrate that such acts of hatred have no place in the Netherlands—a nation with a solemn historical responsibility to protect its Jewish community and all who may be targeted by hate-fueled violence.
“The World Jewish Congress calls on Dutch authorities to not only pursue the perpetrators with the full force of the law but to strengthen security measures to prevent any escalation. In a time when antisemitism is rising worldwide, it is imperative that leaders in every country reaffirm their commitment to the safety and dignity of Jewish communities and all who visit their nations.
“It must also be acknowledged that this attack took place on the sidelines of a sporting event. Football has the profound power to unite communities around the world. Yet, in this case—and in other recent incidents—it has been misused to isolate and target Jewish and Israeli supporters. Governing bodies, leagues, and clubs must act decisively to address this issue before we witness another dark chapter of history repeating itself.”
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