Violence Erupts in The Hague as Anti-Immigration Protesters Clash with Police

Tue Oct 21 2025 02:14:47 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Netherlands witnessed chaotic scenes as police clashed with anti-immigration protesters, resulting in arrests and injuries. Prime Minister and political leaders react to the violence amidst growing tensions over immigration policies.

In a tense confrontation in The Hague, Dutch police used tear gas and water cannons against anti-immigration protesters. Around 1,500 participants blocked roads, leading to violence that left thirty arrested and two officers injured. Prime Minister Dick Schoof condemned the 'shocking' actions, while right-wing leader Geert Wilders called the violence 'idiotic.' The protest was organized by right-wing activists advocating stricter migration policies amid increasing public discontent.

Dutch police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse violent anti-immigration protesters in The Hague on Saturday. Thirty people were arrested and two officers injured as large groups clashed with police, throwing rocks and bottles.

Approximately 1,500 demonstrators blocked major highways, leading to arrests and a police vehicle being set ablaze. Prime Minister Dick Schoof condemned the 'shocking and bizarre images of shameless violence,' deeming it 'completely unacceptable.'

Leading up to the clashes, right-wing leader Geert Wilders, a pivotal figure in recent elections, was invited to speak but did not attend. Instead, he also condemned the violence against police as 'utterly unacceptable,' attributing it to 'idiots.'

The protest was orchestrated by right-wing activists demanding stricter migration policies and measures against asylum seekers. The violence intensified as protesters, many waving Dutch and far-right flags, confronted security forces.

Protesters also vandalized the headquarters of the center-left D66 party, prompting its leader, Rob Jetten, to declare that they would not allow extremists to intimidate them.

The unrest in The Hague is reflective of escalating tensions in the Netherlands' political landscape following the recent collapse of a coalition government over migration disputes.