Three Dutch policemen were injured today during a raid believed to be connected with the murder of filmmaker Theo van Gogh by Muslim extremists on November 2nd. The entire Dutch nation, long known for its tolerance, has seen religious tensions rise dramatically since the murder.
The raid took place Wednesday morning. An explosion took place and shots were fired according to witnesses at the scene. One neighbor claimed she heard a suspect threaten police during the raid, saying, 'I'll behead you, I'll behead you,' when the police asked him to come out of the building. Airspace over the Hague was closed as a result of the confrontation.
Police are still searching for additional suspects who had a connection with van Gogh's murder. The government refused to comment on earlier press reports that a Syrian national was being sought for questioning in the case as well as for making threats against other Dutch politicians who have been critical of Islam.
Meanwhile, two churches were attacked by arsonists in Holland yesterday. Officials believed this was done in response to the attacks on mosques throughout the country earlier in the week. A Muslim school in the town of Uden was also burned down Tuesday and the perpetrators left a note which mentioned van Gogh's killing.
Prejudice against Muslims in the Neatherlands is on the rise. In a recent poll, 40 percent of Dutch citizens surveyed said that they no longer considered Muslims as welcome in their country.
Immigration Minister Rita Verdonk met with Dutch Muslim leaders on Tuesday to discuss ways to halt the escalating tension. She said the violence must stop. 'We must be tough on anybody who is engaged in terrorism. On the other hand we have to make sure that the peaceful majority of the Muslim population does not become the victim of the acts of these terrorists.'
Finding a balance between security and tolerance is suddenly a challenge in the Neatherlands. It remains to be seen if a reasonable balance can be struck or if the violence and tensions will continue to escalate.
