Dutch authorities probe possible link between Amsterdam explosions

Dutch authorities are probing an explosion that struck an office building in Amsterdam, reportedly claimed by the same extremist group that recently said it was responsible for a blast at a local Jewish school, a police representative confirmed on March 16.

The explosion sparked a minor fire that was swiftly put out by on-site security, causing limited damage, according to the spokesperson, who added that police are working to determine if the two incidents are connected, Reuters reports.

Sienna Investment Managers, the company that oversees the office building, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The prior incident on March 14 involved an explosion at a Jewish school in Amsterdam, for which the same extremist organisation claimed responsibility, leading to only minor structural damage. 

This group has also previously claimed responsibility for assaults on synagogues in Rotterdam and in Liege, Belgium. These incidents have already prompted increased security measures at Jewish institutions across Amsterdam.

Justice Minister David van Weel stated that authorities cannot rule out a connection between the explosions in Amsterdam and Rotterdam, but refrained from confirming the group’s social media claims.

Heightened concern for potential attacks on Jewish communities globally has emerged following recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory actions.

By Jeyhun Aghazada