
“Hamas! All Jews to the Gas Chambers!”: Anti-Semitic Chants Erupt Across Europe After Morocco’s World Cup Loss
Violent riots broke out overnight Thursday into Friday in several European cities after Morocco’s 2-0 World Cup quarterfinal defeat to France, with celebrations by Moroccan soccer fans descending into clashes with police and shocking displays of anti-Semitic hatred.
The most disturbing incidents were reported in The Hague, where, according to local media reports and eyewitness accounts, rioters chanted slogans glorifying Hamas and calling for the extermination of Jews. Among the chants heard during the unrest was, “Hamas! Hamas! All Jews to the gas chambers!” Witnesses also reported hearing rioters shout, “The Jews are cancer!”
In London, disorder erupted in the Edgware Road area, home to a large Moroccan community. Even before the match ended, fans blocked traffic, waved Moroccan flags in the middle of the roadway, and set off fireworks. Following Morocco’s defeat, the situation escalated into violent confrontations with police.
Videos circulated on social media showed a police officer lying injured on the ground after reportedly being struck in the head by a glass bottle thrown during the disturbances. London’s Metropolitan Police said four people were arrested during what British media described as scenes of “chaos.”
“We will show absolutely no tolerance for this kind of disorder on our streets or for assaults on our police officers,” the Metropolitan Police said in a statement. “A police presence will remain in the area throughout the night, and we will review CCTV footage and videos circulating on social media to ensure that everyone responsible is brought to justice.”
Police dispersed the rioters at approximately 1 a.m. local time after additional officers were deployed to restore order. Footage from the scene showed extensive street violence and repeated confrontations between rioters and law enforcement.
Moroccan fans also took to the streets in New York following the loss, although no violent clashes comparable to those seen in Europe were reported.