AMSTERDAM, March 11: Dutch judges convicted nine men of belonging to a terrorist group on Friday, in a landmark decision that argues promoting a “violent version of Islam” can itself be an act of terrorism.

The verdict may open a new way for prosecutors to stop potential terrorists before they act and for the Netherlands to tackle the broader problem of the spread of Islamic radicalism among Dutch immigrant youth.

Lawyers for the convicted men said they will appeal.

Two men received 15- and 13-year prison terms, in part for attempted murder after a clash with police during their arrest. One received a five-year term, in part for possessing a loaded machine gun.

The rest were sentenced to up to two years imprisonment. All were found to have spread hateful propaganda among their friends and on the Internet, encouraging Muslims to join jihad against the West.

Though most sentences were short, the judgment was sweeping.

“Anyone who preaches hate and violence lays the basis for committing crimes directed at instilling fear among the people and destroying Dutch democracy,” said judge Rene Elkerbout, reading the three-judge panel’s ruling.—AP