Protests as Israel President at Dutch Holocaust Museum opening

Amsterdam's first Holocaust Museum opens with powerful messages from Dutch King and Israeli President amid protests and rising anti-Semitism.

Dutch King Willem-Alexander officially opened the country's first Holocaust Museum Sunday, as demonstrators angry at Israel's military campaign in Gaza protested against the Israeli President, who also addressed the ceremony.

"This museum shows us what devastating consequences anti-Semitism can have," said the King at a solemn gathering at a nearby synagogue, attended also by Dutch Holocaust survivors.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog said the museum sent "a clear and powerful statement: remember, remember the horrors born of hatred, anti-Semitism and racism and never again allow them to flourish."

"Unfortunately never again is now, right now. Because right now, hatred and anti-Semitism are flourishing worldwide and we must fight it together," added the President.

He called for the "immediate and safe return" of hostages taken by Hamas in the October 7 attacks and urged the congregation to "pray for peace".

Less than one kilometre away were protests against Mr. Herzog's appearance at the ceremonies, organised by, among others, Jewish groups urging an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

Hundreds gathered waving Palestinian flags and banners, and shouting "Never Again Is Now," a reference to their belief Israel is committing genocide in the Palestinian territory.