Netherlands on High Alert Following Potential Iran-Linked Attacks
Dutch authorities are investigating a series of incidents, including the shooting of a police officer of Iranian descent in Schoonhoven and recent attacks on Jewish institutions, with growing concern over potential Iranian involvement. Security measures have been increased for Iranian dissidents living in the Netherlands as investigations continue.
Schoonhoven Police Officer Shooting
On March 20, 2026, a 36-year-old police officer, identified as Mohamed (Mohi) Shafiei, was shot in Schoonhoven while off-duty. The Jerusalem Post and NL Times reported that Shafiei works in the ICT department at the Police Services Center (PDC) in Schoonhoven. His current condition remains unknown. The shooting prompted a large-scale investigation by a Major Investigation Team.
Concerns of Iranian Involvement
Dutch Justice and Security Minister David van Weel has ordered an assessment of the safety of other Iranian dissidents in the Netherlands, citing Shafiei’s Iranian background and current geopolitical tensions. Politico reports that Van Weel stated, “Because of his Iranian background and because of the tensions in the world right now, I’ve ordered an assessment.”
Authorities are also investigating potential links between the shooting and previous incidents, including an explosion outside a synagogue in Rotterdam earlier in March 2026. The anti-terrorism center ICCT considers Iranian involvement likely in these attacks, as well as in the shooting in Schoonhoven, though definitive proof remains elusive. FandF News highlights this concern.
Ashab al-Yamin and Potential Connections
The incidents are being examined in connection with a terrorist group called Ashab al-Yamin, which has claimed responsibility for anti-Semitic attacks in Belgium and the United Kingdom. ICCT’s recent report suggests several signals point towards Iranian involvement with this group. The report notes that actions by Ashab al-Yamin are applauded online by a pro-Iran militia in Iraq, with some attacks being shared so quickly it suggests direct contact.
ICCT also notes that the group appears to recruit young people to carry out attacks, a tactic mirroring hybrid warfare strategies employed elsewhere. However, the group’s statements suggest an improvised nature, potentially designed to create the appearance of an Iranian link.
Threats to Iranian Dissidents
Naser Aziz, an Iranian journalist living in the Netherlands, has also reported receiving threats from the Iranian regime due to his critical reporting. He described the regime as “more dangerous than IS” and detailed past attempts on his life and threats against his family in Iran.
Ongoing Security Measures
While some Iranian dissidents receive state protection, authorities acknowledge the difficulty of securing all individuals at risk. The Dutch government is continuing to investigate the incidents and assess the potential threat posed by Iran, while balancing the need to protect vulnerable individuals within the Iranian diaspora.