Clashes Erupt in The Hague as Anti-Immigration Protest Turns Violent Ahead of Crucial Dutch Elections
Clashes Erupt in The Hague as Anti-Immigration Protest Turns Violent Ahead of Crucial Dutch Elections
The Hague, Netherlands – Intense clashes broke out in the Dutch capital on Saturday as an anti-immigration protest escalated into violence, just weeks before a critical general election scheduled for October 29. Demonstrators, many waving Dutch and far-right flags, confronted police, leading to the deployment of tear gas and a water cannon to disperse the agitated crowd.
The protest, organized by an activist known as “Els Rechts” advocating for stricter migration policies, saw participants throwing rocks and bottles at officers. Footage from Dutch public broadcaster NOS confirmed the chaotic scenes, which also included rioters damaging an office of the centrist political party D66. Rob Jette, D66’s leader, swiftly condemned the acts on X, stating, “If you think you can intimidate us, tough luck. We will never let our beautiful country be taken away by extremist troublemakers.”
The unrest prompted strong condemnation from far-right leader Geert Wilders, whose party’s withdrawal from the ruling coalition triggered the upcoming snap election over a migration dispute. Wilders denounced the rioters as “idiots” and “thugs,” emphasizing that “Blocking the highway and violence against the police is totally, absolutely unacceptable.”
Authorities have not yet confirmed any arrests or injuries stemming from the violent demonstration, which casts a shadow over the political landscape as the Netherlands prepares for its national vote next month.
Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.