Netherlands Drops Criminal Probe Into Gazan Student Over October 7 Video
Dutch authorities will not criminally investigate a Gazan student who hinted at October 7 involvement online. Maastricht University suspended him and is reviewing his return.
Dutch prosecutors and police will not open a criminal investigation against a 22-year-old student from Gaza studying at Maastricht University after he posted a video hinting at involvement in the October 7 Hamas attacks. According to reports in the Netherlands, following an examination of the case, it was determined that there is no suspicion of criminal offenses such as involvement in a terror attack, glorification of terror, or incitement.
The student posted a video on Instagram on September 26 in which he is seen watching television footage of the Hamas assault in Israel. When masked Hamas terrorists appeared on the screen, he said in English: This is me. The video has since been removed.
Maastricht University suspended the student and is now expected to discuss his return to studies. University management spoke with him this week. During the conversation, it was clear that the student was deeply distressed by the uproar that ensued, the university stated. He emphasized that it was a misunderstanding.
According to the university, it is understandable that the turbulence of the past week has affected the student, while at the same time causing unease among members of the university community. Another meeting is scheduled to determine how he can, in the short term, do what he came to the Netherlands to do: study in a safe environment.
Minister of Education Eppo Bruins stated that the decision on the matter will remain with the university: they are responsible for the safety of every student, and I will hold them accountable for it.
