Thousands Protest US Strike on Iran Ahead of NATO Summit
On Sunday, a large group of left-wing protesters filled the streets of The Hague, voicing their opposition to the US military action at Iran’s nuclear site. This demonstration took place just before the upcoming NATO summit in the Netherlands.
Chants like “Fak Nat” and “Donald Trump is a terrorist” echoed as protesters made their way to the Palace of Peace. Their grievances were specifically aimed at the recent US bombing in Iran, coming amid ongoing tensions between Iran’s regime and Israel.
Expressions of anti-Israel sentiment were strongly evident. Many attendees shouted slogans that implied a desire for the destruction of Israel, with calls to “Free Palestine.” Others held signs stating messages such as “Stop the attack on Iran” and “Dismantle Israel.” Reports suggest that the protest was heavily attended by members of various leftist organizations, including the Dutch Socialist Party (SP), the anti-colonial BIJ1 Party, and several radical environmental groups.
Notable attendees included the leader of the Socialist Party, Jimmy Dick, along with members of the leftist antifa movement.
This protest precedes the NATO summit scheduled for Wednesday. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schuoff remarked that, to his knowledge, President Trump still intends to be present despite the rising tensions due to the recent US strike on Iran. “I assume Trump is still here. At least we haven’t received any word to the contrary,” he noted. He added that they are assessing the situation as it evolves.
As the Netherlands approaches elections, members of the Groenlinks-PVDA (Greenleft – Labour) coalition have largely voiced support for measures aimed at implementing a full arms embargo against Israel. This includes preventing the export of equipment that could be used for its defense, such as the Iron Dome system, which shields against missile threats from Iran and its affiliates.
Meanwhile, Groenlinks-PVDA leader Franz Timmermans criticized the US bombing, claiming that while diplomacy should remain a priority, the military strikes violate international law.
In contrast, the populist Freedom Party led by Geert Wilders expressed support for the US actions, claiming that it was a necessary strike against the Iranian regime and a stand for peace through strength.
