adApr 14, 2026, 04:00

The CDA politician who helped Sywert secure the face mask deal now oversees asylum laws: who is he?

CDA politician Bart van den Brink, now serving as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Asylum, is tasked with guiding strict new asylum laws through the Dutch Senate. The profile highlights his transition from a background political figure to a key cabinet member, noting his previous role in facilitating the controversial face mask deal for Sywert van Lienden. Van den Brink is described as a strategic and experienced politician facing a significant legislative challenge.

Politics Netherlands

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Higher profit for Saudi Aramco despite export disruptions due to Iran war

Saudi Aramco reported increased profits for the first quarter as high oil prices, driven by the conflict in Iran, offset operational challenges. Despite the financial gain, the company's exports have been disrupted by the near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz to oil tankers.

Cyclist seriously injured in single-vehicle accident in Bennebroek

A cyclist was seriously injured in a suspected single-vehicle accident on the Leidsevaart in Bennebroek during the night from Saturday to Sunday. Emergency services attended to the victim at the scene following the incident.

Liberation festivals, Sumit's favorites, cow watching and more news from the past week

This article explores the history and architectural features of the Torensluis bridge, explaining its unusual width and the large square marked on the ground. It is featured as part of a weekly news roundup that covers liberation festivals and other local events.

Portable toilet fire at Beverwijk construction site, police investigating

A mobile toilet caught fire on Saturday evening at a construction site on Hoflaan in Beverwijk. Police have launched an investigation into the cause of the incident after flames rose high from the site.

1896 building permit insufficient: city center roof terrace must be removed

A homeowner in Amsterdam's city center must remove a roof terrace and external staircase by June 2026 or face a 10,000 euro fine. A judge rejected the owner's claim that a building permit from 1896 authorized the structure, noting that the terrace only appeared on aerial photos around 2012. The court ruled that enforcing regulations against unauthorized structures serves the public interest.