Dutch King Visits Hague Synagogue, Urges Protection for Jewish Community

King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands made a special visit to the "Beit Yehuda" synagogue in The Hague, arriving under heavy security to offer support to the local Jewish community. The visit aimed to bolster a community that has felt increasingly isolated, fearful, and targeted by rising antisemitism since the October 7th attacks.

During his address, the King called on the "silent majority" in the Netherlands to speak out and act in support of the Jewish population. "Do not touch them," he declared, emphatically separating the Dutch Jewish community from the policies of the Israeli government. He stressed that Dutch Jews are not responsible for events in Israel. Responding to a question about reaching the wider public, the King advised, "Keep talking."

Members of the community, which numbers around 300 families, shared their struggles with the King, describing a daily atmosphere of fear. They recounted instances of women afraid to call taxis from home to the synagogue, children forced to change schools, and individuals choosing to conceal Jewish symbols like Star of David necklaces.

Sid Wagenaard, a 22-year-old community activist, thanked the King, stating, "Jews are connected to Israel, but not to the Israeli government. That is a difference many people do not see." The royal visit occurred amidst significant diplomatic tension between Jerusalem and Amsterdam, stemming from recent Israeli actions to recall diplomatic documentation of Dutch diplomats in Ramallah following a new Dutch regulation prohibiting trade with products from Judea and Samaria. Tensions have also escalated over stringent checks on goods and individuals at Schiphol Airport.

The King, also known for his unique role as a co-pilot on commercial flights for the national airline, has visited Israel previously for the International Holocaust Forum, piloting the royal plane himself on that occasion.