Peaceful Protest Counters Hate in Amsterdam

Standing Against Hate: Pro-Israel Rally in Amsterdam Exposes Rising Antisemitism and Media Distortion:

Yesterday, Dam Square in Amsterdam became the stage for a vital message: Stop the Hate Against Israel. This peaceful pro-Israel rally stood firmly against the surge of antisemitism on university campuses and the growing hostility fueled by misinformation in mainstream media. As false narratives gain traction, they contribute directly to a distorted global perception of Israel — one that endangers Jewish communities worldwide.

The contrast between those who support Israel and those who oppose it could not have been more stark. As the event’s organizer, I arrived early in the afternoon to prepare and display materials supporting Israel. What followed was an unsettling but revealing experience.

Before the police had even arrived, individuals began to approach me — not to engage in dialogue, but to harass, spit on our materials, and chant slogans like “Free Palestine” with hostility. Attempts to reason were futile. Many repeated baseless accusations — calling Israel a “baby killer” and denying the events of October 7, despite overwhelming evidence. I tried to explain the truth: Israel unilaterally withdrew from Gaza in 2005, and Hamas launched an unprovoked terror attack on October 7. But these facts fell on deaf ears.

One man masked his face and began making phone calls, threatening me directly: “You must die.” While I reported him to the police, his exact words — disturbing as they were — did not constitute a criminal offense under Dutch law. The encounter was chilling. I rarely feel threatened, but standing alone in that moment, I did.

Thankfully, the police responded quickly and professionally, and their presence kept agitators at a distance. Once our rally officially began, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. We were joined by powerful speakers who articulated the truth about media bias, antisemitism, and the horrors of October 7 — including a moving testimony from an Israeli witness. With music, speeches, and solidarity, our gathering remained peaceful and dignified, despite attempts by pro-Palestinian activists to disrupt it.

This stark contrast between the two groups was evident. While the pro-Israel crowd upheld respect, peace, and dialogue, the opposing side relied on intimidation, distortion, and aggression. The media’s role is critical here: headlines shape public opinion. Fortunately, some outlets chose courage over conformity and reported our message truthfully — and for that, they deserve recognition.

Yet, we must do more. The world needs to see that not everyone stands with the pro-Palestinian narrative, especially when that narrative excuses terror, justifies hatred, or glorifies violence. Even now, 59 hostages remain in Gaza under horrific conditions — a fact too often ignored. If Hamas were to release the hostages and lay down its weapons, peace would be within reach.

Our rally was a step in the right direction. But next time, let’s hope for greater numbers and even stronger voices. It is time to show the world that standing with Israel is not only just — it is essential.