Netherlands calls for EU review of Israel's Gaza plans

Dutch foreign affairs minister Caspar Veldkamp has raised serious concerns regarding Israel's approach to the Gaza region, accusing the nation of violating human rights laws amid plans for permanent occupation. In a letter addressed to Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, Veldkamp asserted that Israel's blockade of Gaza contravenes the stipulations of its free trade agreement with the EU.

During a recent visit to London, Veldkamp indicated his intention to urge European foreign ministers to reassess the treaty during their upcoming meeting in Gymnich, Poland. He expressed to The Guardian, “You cannot starve the people of the Gaza Strip. It is against international law. It’s morally wrong. It’s dangerous. I don’t think it’s in Israel’s own interest.”

These remarks mark the Dutch government's most vigorous critique of Israel since its military actions in Gaza commenced in response to Hamas attacks in October 2023. Prime minister Dick Schoof, speaking alongside his Belgian counterpart Bart De Wever in The Hague, voiced that Israel’s Gaza strategy is “concerning” and not aligned with the cabinet's vision for peace. He called for a resumption of ceasefire discussions, emphasizing that “Israel must respect international law” and condemning actions that undermine this stance, such as the blockade and proposals for permanent occupation.

Historically, the government has resisted calls from nations like Ireland and Spain to suspend the treaty as a means of pressuring Israel. In a nuanced position, Veldkamp, a former ambassador to Israel, previously criticized Ireland's more vocal approach, claiming that the Netherlands was making more progress than those opting out of dialogue.

The recent death of 15 Palestinian ambulance workers at the hands of Israeli soldiers has seemingly shifted the dynamics of Dutch-Israeli relations. Following the incident, which contradicted Israeli assertions regarding the ambulance convoy's conduct at a military checkpoint, Veldkamp summoned the Israeli ambassador to address the grave concerns.

In the political landscape, Veldkamp faces opposition from Geert Wilders, leader of the far-right Party for Freedom (PVV), the largest faction in the ruling coalition. Wilders labeled Veldkamp’s criticism of the attack as “premature and clumsy,” while Veldkamp countered by denouncing Wilders’ visit to an illegal Israeli settlement in the West Bank as “an affront to cabinet policy.”

In his correspondence to Kallas, Veldkamp called for an EU investigation into Israel's latest initiatives, including a proposed aid distribution system for Gaza. He cautioned that preliminary details suggested the system might not adhere to humanitarian principles of neutrality and independence. Furthermore, he stated that the Netherlands would not endorse an extension of the association agreement with Israel until a thorough investigation is completed, noting that such an extension necessitates unanimous agreement from all 27 EU member states.

Veldkamp concluded by advocating for a broader debate and reflection on the EU's relationship with Israel, emphasizing the need for a more principled approach in light of recent developments.