Rotterdam Port Protest Leads to Mass Arrests
Over 300 people were arrested on Saturday after a pro-Palestinian protest blocked rail tracks in and around the port of Rotterdam.
A police officer was hospitalized after being punched in the face, while two others were bitten and struck but remained on duty.
The protest, organized by Geef Tegengas, demanded “a complete arms and trade embargo” against Israel.
Police deemed the rail occupation "dangerous" due to trains carrying hazardous materials using the route. After protesters ignored orders to leave, officers cleared the tracks around 3 p.m., halting about 40 freight trains.
- Seven protesters remain in custody for assault, resisting arrest, vandalism, and insult.
- Others were processed and released.
This blockade follows recent pro-Palestinian demonstrations at The Hague Central Station and Amsterdam Central Station, where police made over 200 and about 20 arrests, respectively.
Author's summary: Pro-Palestinian protest in Rotterdam leads to over 300 arrests.