The Dutch government has ruled out recognising a Palestinian state for now, despite mounting public concern over the conflict in Gaza. Speaking during an emergency parliamentary debate on Thursday, Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp said the Netherlands was “not planning to recognise a Palestinian state at this time,” a position that contrasts with some NATO allies.
France has announced it will recognise Palestinian statehood in September, while Britain has indicated it will follow suit unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire and takes steps to ease suffering in Gaza, where starvation is worsening.
Veldkamp also dismissed calls to halt arms imports from Israel, explaining that the Netherlands prioritises domestic and EU procurement before sourcing from outside the bloc. However, he noted that the government had already imposed travel bans on two Israeli ministers.
“This war has ceased to be a just war and is now leading to the erosion of Israel’s own security and identity,” Veldkamp warned.
Outside the parliament in The Hague, an estimated 250 pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered, chanting for an immediate ceasefire and greater humanitarian aid to Gaza. Local media reported protesters carrying banners urging stronger Dutch intervention.
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