The leader of the far-right Forum for Democracy (FvD) party in the Netherlands was assaulted during a campaign event on Monday, two days ahead of the national elections.

The incident unfolded in a bar where the politician, Thierry Baudet, was campaigning. Baudet was struck in the back of the head and on his temple with a beer bottle. Video capturing the moment and subsequent arrest of a suspect outside the establishment have circulated widely on social media. The motive behind the assault remains unclear.

Following the attack, Baudet was transported to a hospital in Groningen for treatment. FvD stated on X, “it looks like everything will all be alright”. Just last month, Baudet had also been struck on the head with an umbrella at an event in the Belgian city of Ghent.

Several Dutch politicians condemned the attacks. Outgoing Prime Minister Mark Rutte, who is not running in the upcoming election, labelled the assault as “totally unacceptable” in a firm message on social media. Rutte emphasized, “Don’t touch politicians.”

The Forum for Democracy party, known for its Eurosceptic stance, Dutch nationalist ideology and anti-immigration policies is forecasted to secure three to five seats in the 150-member Dutch parliament. In the last 20 years, far-right parties, such as the Freedom Party (PVV), have been gaining traction in the Netherlands. According to initial exit polls, the PVV received the most votes in Wednesday’s elections.