Rise in anti-Islam attacks: Mosques demand urgent security
Eight mosques across the Netherlands received threat letters covered in red stains resembling blood, causing panic and calls for increased security. The letters, made from cutouts of Quranic verses, included phrases such as "Islam is no different from Nazism" and "Islam must die." Some mosques, including the Peace Mosque in Rotterdam, also received a DVD with the phrase "the last day of Islam in Europe."
The first message arrived at the Aya Sophia Mosque in Rotterdam last week, coinciding with the celebration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Other targeted mosques this week include the Turkish Mawlana Mosque, the Kucukcekmece Mosque, the Peace Mosque in Rotterdam; the Al-Aqsa Mosque in The Hague; the Fath Mosque and the Furqan Mosque in Eindhoven; and the Turkiyem Mosque in Arnhem.
Leaders of the affected mosques expressed their shock and concern for their communities. Mohammadi Al-Harsh, the head of Al-Salam Mosque, said: "This is a very clear statement, and we take it seriously. We are now considering all scenarios about what might happen next." The mosque requested increased security from local authorities to protect worshippers. The leaders are also discussing the possibility of limiting the opening of mosques to prayer times only, fearing that restrictions could lead to a fundamental change in the mosque's purpose and openness.
Five of the targeted mosques are affiliated with the Islamic Foundation in the Netherlands (ISN-Diyanet), which reported that these threats are partly fueled by politicians who "explicitly highlight Islamophobia," increasing the growing discrimination against Muslims. Since 2015, the foundation has recorded around 300 incidents against Islam, including threat messages, acts of vandalism, and arson attempts. The spokesperson confirmed that the mosques, despite their efforts to maintain calm, make community members feel that they are no longer safe.
Authorities are coordinating with local municipalities to enhance security measures in the affected mosques. A police spokesperson confirmed that they are aware of the messages and are in close and cooperative contact with mosque officials to ensure the safety of worshippers.