The flared conflict between Israel and Hamas is leading to a major shock at the Camp Westerbork Remembrance Center. Director Bertien Minco sees that deep wounds in the Jewish community are being reopened.
“Jews left after the war out of desperation, the desire to found their own country and live in peace. You have seen for years how difficult that is and now again how far we are from that. That is a hard blow,” he shudders. she.
Minco emphasizes that grandchildren and great-grandchildren of former camp prisoners who fell into the hands of the Nazis were murdered by Hamas. “That line is there and that is why we feel connected.”
The violence also reminds her of the cruel pogroms of the twentieth century. “You read about burned down villages and people who were dragged from their homes. That is very similar to the situation today. And because of the hopelessness and the violence that is being intensified, you know: there will be more deaths on both sides. That’s where you become very sad about it.”
During the upcoming commemoration, the Remembrance Center will continue to pay attention to the escalated conflict. Minco: “We can’t ignore this so we will mention it.” The Remembrance Center refrains from raising the Israeli flag or other politically charged statements. “I don’t think that’s a helpful gesture, especially in a place so remote.”