Over 300 arrested, officer injured at Rotterdam port protest
More than 300 people were arrested Saturday after pro-Palestinian activists blocked rail tracks in and around the port of Rotterdam, police said.
One officer was hospitalized after being punched in the face, while two others were bitten and struck but stayed on duty, RTL reported.
The protest, organized by Geef Tegengas, demanded “a complete arms and trade embargo” against Israel. Police said the rail occupation was “dangerous” because trains carrying hazardous materials use the route. Officers moved in after protesters ignored orders to leave, clearing the tracks around 3 p.m.
About 40 freight trains were halted during the action. Seven protesters remain in custody — four for assault and resisting arrest, and three for vandalism and insult. Others were processed and released.
The blockade followed recent pro-Palestinian demonstrations at The Hague Central Station and Amsterdam Central Station, where police made over 200 and about 20 arrests, respectively.
