Dutch riot police dispersed several hundred far-right protesters in The Hague after local authorities banned a march opposing immigration and asylum policies. Officers made multiple arrests when some demonstrators threw fireworks and other projectiles. Justice Minister David van Weel demanded an "extremely firm" response, condemning Nazi salutes and antisemitic chants. The unrest echoed violent clashes from last year that included arson and an attack on D66 headquarters.
Violence Erupts in The Hague: Riot Police Break Up Far-Right Protest After March Ban
Protesters attend a far-right groups' protest against immigration and asylum policies, in The Hague, Netherlands, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. (AP Photo/Mouneb Taim)(AP Photo/Mouneb Taim)
THE HAGUE, Netherlands — Dutch riot police dispersed several hundred far-right protesters in The Hague on Saturday after authorities banned a planned march opposing immigration and asylum policies following outbreaks of violence.
A woman walks past police officers during a far-right groups' protest against immigration and asylum policies, in The Hague, Netherlands, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. (AP Photo/Mouneb Taim)(AP Photo/Mouneb Taim)
Officers made multiple arrests after some demonstrators began hurling fireworks and other projectiles at police. Local officials said the crowd at the Malieveld — a central city park — was ordered to disperse after disorder escalated.
A Police officer with a dog guards during a far-right groups' protest against immigration and asylum policies, in The Hague, Netherlands, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. (AP Photo/Mouneb Taim)(AP Photo/Mouneb Taim)
Officials Respond
Justice Minister David van Weel called on X for an "extremely firm" response to what he described as "disgusting scenes" at the demonstration. Authorities reported that some participants gave Nazi salutes, chanted antisemitic slogans, attacked police and threw fireworks at riot officers.
Police officers ride horses during a far-right groups' protest against immigration and asylum policies, in The Hague, Netherlands, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026. (AP Photo/Mouneb Taim)(AP Photo/Mouneb Taim)
"Thanks to all the police officers who are once again standing up for our democratic rule of law," the minister wrote.
Context and Recent History
Authorities said Saturday's unrest recalled last year's violent clashes around a right-wing demonstration, when a police car was set on fire and black-clad protesters fought with police. The headquarters of the centrist D66 party — whose leader, Rob Jetten, is now prime minister — was also attacked during those disturbances.
Investigations and policing actions are ongoing, and officials warned that further arrests and a review of the events are likely as authorities assess the scale of the violence and potential criminal charges.
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