BBC’s ‘Correction’ On Amsterdam Violence Video
The BBC has come under scrutiny following its correction regarding a video used in its coverage of violent clashes in Amsterdam after a Europa League match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax on 7 November 2024. The broadcaster admitted its use of the footage, which showed Maccabi supporters attacking a Dutch man, may have misled viewers by implying the clip depicted attacks on Israeli fans.
The incident unfolded as tensions over the Gaza-Israel conflict spilled onto the streets of Amsterdam. Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters gathered near Amsterdam’s Central Station, chanting inflammatory slogans, including “Death to Arabs” and tearing down Palestinian flags. This sparked confrontations with local pro-Palestinian demonstrators. Sixty-two people were arrested, and the city’s mayor, Femke Halsema, imposed a temporary ban on demonstrations to prevent further violence.
During an interview on Newsnight with an Israeli fan, the BBC used footage shot by Dutch photographer Annet de Graaf, which had been widely circulated online. The broadcaster later acknowledged that the clip’s inclusion “could have given the impression” it showed Israeli fans being attacked rather than accurately depicting Maccabi supporters’ aggression. The BBC clarified that the footage was intended to illustrate general disorder, but critics highlighted its delay in issuing the correction, which came 45 days after the broadcast.
The BBC statement said: “During an interview on Newsnight with an Israeli fan about disorder after a football match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax in Amsterdam, we used stills and footage from the night to accompany the conversation. This included footage shot near the Amsterdam Central Station appearing to show a large group chasing and attacking an individual.
“However, the author of the clip said separately on social media she had filmed Maccabi supporters attacking a Dutch man and so its inclusion during this segment, and some previous use when reporting reaction to the disorder on the BBC News Channel, could have given the impression that this was illustrating attacks on Israeli fans.
“We acknowledge that we should have been clearer about the context, and that the use of the footage here was intended to illustrate the general disorder, and are happy to correct the record.”
The correction drew attention as it coincided with similar controversies in other media outlets. For instance, the New York Times, which also misused the same video, issued its clarification within five days, prompting comparisons about the timeliness of journalistic accountability. While the BBC eventually removed the video from its social media platforms, this action only occurred after The National questioned its continued presence.
The clashes have provoked wider discussions about the role of media in shaping narratives during highly charged conflicts. Many media reports focused heavily on antisemitic violence directed at Maccabi supporters, with some controversially labelling the events a “pogrom.” However, there was less coverage of the inflammatory actions and racist chants by Israeli fans, which escalated tensions. Critics argue this selective reporting obscured the complexities of the situation.
The violence erupted on the anniversary of Kristallnacht, a historical event that deeply resonates with Amsterdam’s Jewish community. Dutch officials, including Prime Minister Dick Schoof and King Willem-Alexander, expressed shock at the scenes, condemning antisemitism and calling for accountability. However, pro-Palestinian demonstrators criticised authorities for perceived bias, claiming police provided preferential treatment to Maccabi supporters while suppressing their protests.
World leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden and U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, condemned the violence, calling for measures to address escalating tensions. UEFA, European football’s governing body, has since relocated Maccabi Tel Aviv’s future Europa League matches to neutral venues and pledged to investigate those responsible.
