Amsterdam under state of emergency and protests banned over the weekend

Mayor of the Dutch capital has issued a decree banning clothing that covers faces

Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema declared a state of emergency in the Dutch capital on Friday and banned demonstrations over the weekend.

“As of today, the emergency decree applies to Amsterdam and Amstelveen [ the municipality ]. This weekend, it is forbidden to demonstrate, wear clothing that covers the face and carry objects that could disturb public order,” Halsema said at a press conference broadcast by AT5.

The statements come in the wake of clashes on Thursday night between pro-Palestinian protesters and Maccabi Tel Aviv fans in the capital.

The president also announced that the entire city will be considered a “security risk zone”, which will expand the functions of the police, who will be able to intensify security measures and carry out preventive searches without a warrant.

“There are many demonstrations and protests in the city, and we are always prepared for them. But what happened yesterday [ Thursday ] night is not a protest. It has nothing to do with a protest or a demonstration. It is a crime,” he stressed.

The mayor also ordered greater police mobilization in the city, especially around institutions and organizations “vulnerable” to possible attacks.

The president had already expressed regret over what had happened, saying she felt “deeply ashamed”.

“This is a very dark moment for the city,” he said.