Dutch face 'substantial' terror threat over new film on Islam
Support truly
independent journalism
Our mission is to deliver unbiased, fact-based reporting that holds power to account and exposes the truth.
Whether $5 or $50, every contribution counts.
Support us to deliver journalism without an agenda.
Louise Thomas
Editor
The Netherlands has raised its national risk level of a terrorist attack to "substantial" before the launch of a film made by a right-wing politician that is expected to be critical of the Koran.
The Dutch counter-terrorism agency said, in a report to parliament, that its new threat assessment was also influenced by arrests elsewhere in Europe. These are said to have thwarted attacks by groups directed or influenced by al-Qa'ida in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The threat level was also set at "substantial" when religious and racial tensions simmered after an Islamic militant killed Theo Van Gogh in 2004. The director had made a film in which he accused Islam of condoning violence against women.
The government is warning that the latest film, due to be released this month by Geert Wilders, might spark unrest and sanctions similar to those triggered when Danish newspapers published a cartoon of the Prophet Mohamed in 2006.
Mr Wilders has given few details about the film he is calling Fitna, an Arabic word used in the Koran and translated as "strife". He calls the Koran a "fascist" book that incites violence and says it should be banned.
The counter-terrorism agency said the way Islam was debated in the Netherlands had raised the country's profile in Muslim countries. It noted death threats against Mr Wilders and calls to attack Dutch troops.
A poll on Wednesday showed that a majority of Dutch people wanted the film to be broadcast.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments