A synagogue in Rotterdam was the target of a suspected arson attack. Image: keystone
Mar 13, 2026, 3:17 p.mMar 13, 2026, 3:17 p.m
Dutch police have arrested four people in connection with the suspected arson attack on a synagogue in Rotterdam. The four suspects were reportedly arrested near another synagogue.
According to police, a fire was set early in the morning in front of the entrance to the Rotterdam synagogue. The fire went out by itself and no one was injured, police in the Dutch port city said. The Jewish community and politicians reacted with shock.
Unusual behavior
The suspects, aged 17 to 19, were arrested early in the morning. The police noticed the car because of its driving behavior. It is unknown whether an arson attack was also planned at the second synagogue.
The fire outside the entrance to the synagogue was seen in footage shared on social media. There was a small explosion. According to police, the investigation is ongoing.
“Targeted attack on Jewish community”
The attack will increase fears among the Jewish community, said the synagogue’s chairman, Chris den Hoedt, even if the material damage was minor. He spoke of “a targeted attack on a Dutch religious community”.
Justice Minister David van Weel spoke of a targeted attack with a presumably anti-Semitic background. The Jewish community has long been the target of violence and threats.
Rotterdam Mayor Carola Schouten promised extra security measures. “There is no place in Rotterdam for anti-Semitism, intimidation, violence and hatred against religious communities.” (sda/dpa)