Dutch Police Arrest Pro-Palestine Protesters at WWII Liberation Event

Dutch police arrested five pro-Palestine demonstrators on Monday during events in Wageningen marking the 80th anniversary of the Netherlands' liberation from Nazi occupation at the end of World War II in Europe.

An estimated 250 to 300 protesters gathered to voice opposition to the Israel-Gaza war, demanding the Dutch government take a stronger stance against the conflict. They carried signs reading, "Not then, not now, never again" and "Don't give hate power," according to a Reuters witness. Demonstrators also unfurled an 80-meter red banner, symbolizing what they called "the red line the government refuses to draw."

Smoke Bomb Disrupts Prime Minister’s Speech

During an address by Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, a protester threw a smoke bomb onto the stage, where visiting Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk was also present. Dutch media reported the disruption, though police could not confirm whether the individual was among those detained.

In his speech, Tusk referenced the war in Ukraine, warning that Europe’s era of comfort and freedom had ended. He emphasized the need for unity, stating that the lessons of World War II required nations to stand together against modern challenges.

Protesters Interrupt Defense Minister’s Address

Later in the day, pro-Palestine demonstrators disrupted a speech by Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans, chanting "Free Palestine" and other slogans. Brekelmans had been discussing NATO and the EU’s role in maintaining peace, noting the historic participation of German soldiers in the parade. He warned against complacency, stating that threats often emerge gradually.

Addressing the protesters briefly, he urged unity, saying, "Hold each other tightly and don’t let each other be played off against one another—that is what we all have to do." Police confirmed five arrests after individuals breached security barriers.

The annual Wageningen event commemorates the 1945 surrender of Nazi forces in the Netherlands and remains a cornerstone of Dutch national remembrance.