What was supposed to be a political demonstration in The Hague quickly spiraled out of control, turning into a violent clash between far-right protesters and Dutch police.
What began as an anti-migration rally ended with flames, smashed windows, and a police car set ablaze just weeks before the Netherlands heads to the polls.
Police Clash With Protesters
As tempers flared, demonstrators hurled bottles at police, forcing officers to respond with tear gas and water cannons.
Amid the chaos, a police vehicle was torched, and authorities were left battling to contain what looked increasingly like a riot rather than a protest.
Dutch media reported widespread damage, including attacks on political offices.
Political Party Office Targeted
One of the most shocking moments came when rioters vandalized the office of D66, a centrist political party.
Party leader Rob Jetten did not mince words when he addressed the attack on social media, saying: “Scum.
You keep your hands off political parties. If you think you can intimidate us, tough luck. We will never let extremist rioters take our beautiful country away.”
Parliament Complex Under Threat
A smaller group of rioters even made their way toward the Dutch parliament complex.
Fortunately, the building is currently closed and fenced off for long-term renovations, preventing further damage.
Still, the symbolic gesture highlighted the dangerous mood in the crowd.
Organiser Condemns the Violence
The demonstration was organized by far-right activist Els Rechts, who later expressed regret over how events unfolded.
Taking to social media, she insisted the violence was never the intention: “I condemn every form of violence.
Police officers were cornered, and things were destroyed and set on fire. I assumed people came to demonstrate peacefully, but it turned out very differently. If I had known this in advance, I would never have organized it.”
She thanked those who remained peaceful but admitted the unrest had overshadowed the entire purpose of the demonstration.
Voices From the Far Right
Among the speakers at the protest was a member of the right-wing populist party BVNL, who described the Netherlands as a “multicultural nightmare.”
The choice of words underscored just how heated the political debate around migration has become, especially as the country heads into a pivotal election.
Election Looms Large
The timing of this unrest is significant. The Netherlands is set to hold a general election on October 29, called after anti-Islam politician Geert Wilders pulled his party from the ruling coalition in a dispute over migration policy.
Wilders himself condemned the violence, blasting those responsible for blocking roads and attacking police, calling them “idiots” and “scum.”
What Happens Next
For now, questions remain. Authorities have not confirmed whether arrests were made or if there were injuries during the clashes.
What is clear is that the country’s deep divisions over migration and identity are spilling onto the streets, raising the stakes for an already tense election season.