Rotterdam Holocaust commemoration proceeds with Mayor Schouten and Israeli Ambassador Zvi Aviner Vapni despite protests from activists and politicians

Will Rotterdam's annual Holocaust commemoration become a moment of remembrance — or another flashpoint in the city's increasingly polarized debate over Israel and Gaza? After days of speculation and political pressure, Mayor Carola Schouten has confirmed that she will attend and speak at Thursday's Holocaust commemoration at Loods 24, where Israeli Ambassador Zvi Aviner Vapni is also expected to address those gathered. The decision follows a fierce public debate that has exposed tensions far beyond the memorial itself. Read on for the full story and analysis.