rssJun 23, 2026, 13:50

How Haarlem became the scene of a foiled assassination attempt on an Iranian activist

Prosecutors detailed a foiled plot to assassinate Iranian activist Siamak Tahmasbi at his home in Haarlem, allegedly orchestrated by fugitive Sami B. through an international hit team. Intercepted messages revealed the group's intent to kill Tahmasbi, a regime critic living under police protection in the Netherlands. The case came to light during a preliminary hearing following investigations into suspects from several countries.

Politics Haarlem Netherlands World

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Election of bishop in Old Catholic Church of Haarlem: "Truly exciting"

The Old Catholic Church in Haarlem is holding a public election to select a new bishop, marking the retirement of the current leader, Dirk Jan Schoon. Unlike previous elections, the outcome remains highly uncertain as candidates are drawn from a list of priests and the selection process involves multiple rounds of secret voting.

Huzaren van Boreel capture Haarlem for special ceremony

Sixty young soldiers from the Huzaren van Boreel regiment held a public oath-taking ceremony on the Grote Markt in Haarlem, preceded by a military parade through the city. The event aimed to increase the military's public visibility, though it has sparked political questions regarding the logistics and appropriateness of the display in the city.

Unrest in Zwanenburg due to squatters in demolition building next to primary school

Parents of students at De Kameleon primary school in Zwanenburg have expressed concerns after squatters occupied a vacant school building located directly next to the campus. While the municipality intends to eventually demolish the building following an asbestos inspection, they are not currently pursuing an eviction despite installing security cameras to monitor the situation.

Suspect in plot to attack Princesses Amalia and Alexia acquitted

A 33-year-old man accused of preparing an attack on Princesses Amalia and Alexia has been acquitted. The court ruled that the suspect was suffering from a psychosis at the time and had no actual intent to harm the princesses.

IJtunnel closed to cyclists, microcars, and pedestrians during 24-hour public transport strike

During a nationwide public transport strike on September 9, ferry services in Amsterdam will be suspended, making Amsterdam-Noord difficult to reach. The city government has decided not to open the IJtunnel to cyclists or pedestrians due to safety concerns, instead advising residents to work from home.