What happened at Den Haag Centraal
Pro-Palestinian activists staged a notable disruption at Den Haag Centraal, seating themselves on multiple train tracks and blocking access to the station. The confrontation involved around twenty demonstrators, according to ProRail, and led to a halt in train traffic to and from The Hague. The situation caused a ripple effect across the regional rail network, with several lines advised to seek alternative routes as the disruption continued.
Earlier in the day, dozens of demonstrators breached access control in the main station hall, and the group reportedly chanted “Free Palestine.” The disruption swallowed a portion of peak travel time, as the station became a focal point for a larger protest linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the accompaniment of activists attempting to bring aid by sea.
Police response and arrests
Authorities moved to clear the area, and the police worked to remove protesters from both the station building and the tracks. An ANP journalist reported that around five people were arrested and transported away by bus. In the midst of the crowd control, security personnel worked to reestablish order and inspect the station premises for safety concerns.
Travel disruption and passenger impact
The Dutch rail operator NS indicated that train traffic was expected to be disrupted until around 21:45, with certain routes affected and passengers advised to seek alternative travel options. Commuters traveling from Leiden, Zoetermeer, or Delft were specifically encouraged to alter their plans. At least one train was stranded at the station while authorities managed the scene, underscoring the broader impact on the regional timetable.
Context and nationwide reactions
In the surrounding area of The Hague, hundreds gathered around Den Haag Centraal to draw attention to pro-Palestinian activists who, the night before, were detained after attempting to travel by boat toward Gaza. The demonstrators at the station called on the cabinet to advocate for the activists who sought to deliver food supplies to the Gazan coast. Earlier in the day, riot police, referred to as the ME (Machtige Eenheid), intervened at the Foreign Affairs Ministry in a related protest before the group moved to the rail station.
What comes next
As security services assess the situation, questions remain about potential charges and the length of disruption as investigations continue. Officials from ProRail and NS are expected to coordinate on safety protocols and rerouting plans, while authorities monitor for further demonstrations that could affect rail service. For travelers, the guidance remains to check live travel advisories and plan for possible delays or detours in the Den Haag area and surrounding routes.
Public safety and information
Authorities have stressed that crowd management and safety are the primary concerns, with a focus on ensuring passengers can travel again as soon as feasible. The events at Den Haag Centraal illustrate how protests can impact public transport networks and prompt rapid coordination between municipal security, transit operators, and law enforcement.
