Dutch King Visits Synagogue in The Hague to Express Solidarity With Jewish Community

King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands paid a special solidarity visit to the Beit Yehuda synagogue in The Hague under heavy security to support the local Jewish community, which has experienced growing isolation, fear, and anti-Semitism since the October 7 attacks.

During the visit, the King called on the country's "silent majority" to stand up and act on behalf of the community. He strongly dissociated Dutch Jewish citizens from the policies of the Israeli government, emphasizing that they are not responsible for events in Israel, and encouraged members to continue speaking out.

Community members shared their daily fears, including women afraid to order taxis, children changing schools, and citizens hiding Jewish symbols. Meanwhile, the state visit took place against a backdrop of diplomatic tensions between Jerusalem and Amsterdam following trade restrictions and disputes at Schiphol Airport.