Antwerp Mosques Sue Far-Right Party Over Eid Prayer Video Controversy

All mosques, except a few, remained closed on July 31, the day of Eid Al-Adha, due to the restrictive measures enacted by the Belgian authorities to curb the spread of the coronavirus. Under police supervision, Muslim worshippers had lined up at the entrance of a mosque north of Antwerp for the Eid prayer, reports Belga. According to the mosque authorities, "no violation of the security measures had been observed".

But before the arrival of the police, the right-wing party of Tom Van Grieken filmed and published a video with the comment: "Incredible! Here is the real reason why the entire province of Antwerp is being punished". This publication provoked a reaction from the leaders of the targeted mosques. They insist that this video in no way reflects reality. They denounce an incitement to hatred and discrimination against Muslims.

In addition, the leaders of two mosques have filed a complaint against Vlaams Belang and its president. For his part, Tom Van Grieken flatly rejects the accusations and claims to have "revealed the truth".