The Dutch government has successfully averted a crisis following the resignation of Finance Secretary Nora Achahbar. Her decision came after far-right politician Geert Wilders made inflammatory comments blaming Moroccan immigrants for violent incidents involving Israeli fans after a soccer match in Amsterdam on November 7.

Wilders, leader of the Party for Freedom, controversially stated that the violence was fueled by “Moroccans who want to destroy Jews” and called for the deportation of dual nationals involved in the attacks. His remarks, which added to the tensions surrounding the unrest, sparked significant backlash from opposition leaders.

Achahbar, born in Morocco and a member of the centrist New Social Contract party, said she could no longer continue in her role due to the impact of the divisive rhetoric. She emphasized the danger of societal polarization and the erosion of unity among Dutch citizens.

While the government, including Prime Minister Dick Schoof, reaffirmed its commitment to unity, opposition figures like Frans Timmermans criticized the ruling coalition for allowing such comments to fester.

The violence, which involved clashes between fans of Ajax Amsterdam and Maccabi Tel Aviv, led to multiple injuries and over 60 arrests, with both sides accused of provoking tension.