Student suspended in Netherlands after claiming involvement in October 7 attack — Jerusalem Post

Maastricht University in the Netherlands has temporarily suspended a 22-year-old Palestinian student from the Gaza Strip after he stated on Instagram that he allegedly took part in the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. This was reported by the Jerusalem Post.

In a video that was later deleted, the student watched footage of the attack and pointed to masked people on the screen, claiming that he was among them. The student's participation in the attack has not been confirmed.

University decision

A university representative confirmed the publication and the student's temporary suspension from studies. During this period, he cannot attend classes, and the institution must determine whether he can continue his studies and under what conditions.

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The university explained its decision by saying that the publication and the reaction to it could cause concern and tension among students. According to the institution, the suspension is necessary to ensure safe operations without threats or disruptions.

Review of the circumstances

The university helped the student move to the Netherlands: on April 8, the institution submitted an application for a temporary residence permit on his behalf, which was approved by immigration authorities. He arrived in the country in recent months.

According to the Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, the student has about 30,000 Instagram followers and also posted images featuring jihadist gestures. Police have not opened a criminal investigation on their own initiative, as the video itself is not considered sufficient grounds. Maastricht University also did not say whether it would file a report with the police.