Dutch Government Avoids Crisis After Minister Resigns

The Dutch coalition government, led by Prime Minister Dick Schoof, narrowly avoided a crisis after Junior Finance Minister Nora Achahbar resigned in protest over alleged racist remarks by cabinet colleagues related to recent violence in Amsterdam. The unrest involved clashes between Israeli football fans and local youths, reportedly of Moroccan descent, following a Europa League match. Achahbar's resignation threatened the coalition's stability, but after an emergency meeting, the government decided to remain intact. This incident highlights underlying tensions in Dutch society, exacerbated by the Middle East conflict, and has strained relations between Jewish and Muslim communities in Amsterdam. Geert Wilders, leader of the far-right Party for Freedom, criticized Schoof's handling of the situation, accusing the government of lacking urgency. The violence and political fallout underscore the challenges facing the new coalition as it grapples with internal divisions and societal unrest.