Violent Anti-Immigration Protest in The Hague Results in Police Vehicle Fire and Highway Blockage
A violent anti-immigration protest in The Hague on September 21, 2025, resulted in a police vehicle being set on fire and major highway blockages, prompting a significant law enforcement response.
A large-scale anti-immigration protest erupted into violence in The Hague on September 21, 2025, as demonstrators clashed with police, set a police vehicle ablaze, and blocked key highways leading into the city. The protest, which drew hundreds of participants, was organized in response to recent government immigration policies that have sparked heated debate across the Netherlands.
Escalation and Police Response
According to local authorities, the demonstration began peacefully in the early afternoon but quickly escalated when a group of masked individuals broke away from the main crowd. These individuals reportedly hurled projectiles at police officers and ignited a police van near the city center. Law enforcement responded with water cannons and mounted units to disperse the crowd, leading to several arrests. The Hague police stated that their primary concern was public safety and the protection of property, emphasizing that violence against officers would not be tolerated.
Highway Blockages and Public Disruption
Protesters also targeted major transportation routes, blocking the A12 and A4 highways with burning debris and makeshift barricades. This action caused significant traffic disruptions, stranding commuters and forcing authorities to divert vehicles away from the affected areas. Emergency services were deployed to clear the blockages and ensure that ambulances and fire trucks could access the city if needed. The Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security issued a statement condemning the violence and urging citizens to avoid the protest zones until order was restored.
Political and Social Reactions
The incident has drawn swift condemnation from political leaders across the spectrum. Several members of the Dutch parliament called for calm and stressed the importance of peaceful protest, while others demanded a review of security measures for future demonstrations. Human rights organizations expressed concern about the potential for further unrest and called for dialogue between the government and concerned citizens. As of the evening of September 21, police reported that the situation was under control, though investigations into the arson and public disorder were ongoing.