News about energy, Rotterdam, distribution law and Vijlbrief (Friday, March 20)

After attacks on oil and gas facilities in the Middle East, energy prices rose sharply. The European gas price rose by 35 percent in Amsterdam. Brent crude oil became more than 10 percent more expensive on Thursday, and prices could remain high for months.

The police arrested a fifth suspect after the explosion at a synagogue in Rotterdam. He is a 19-year-old man from Tilburg, and he was detained on Thursday. The Public Prosecution Service suspects four others from Tilburg of arson and explosion.

D66, VVD and CDA say that the distribution law will remain in effect for the time being. They respond to the gains of local parties that oppose new asylum seeker centers. Almost 38,000 shelter places must be added in the next one and a half years.

Minister Vijlbrief is taking more time for two controversial plans. These concern a faster state pension age and a lower leave allowance. He wants to talk with trade unions and employers, and adjustment remains possible.