The Netherlands is now actively speaking out against the atrocities in Gaza, and states that additional “measures will have to follow” if Israel refuses to honour EU-Israeli agreements.
In a recent letter to the Dutch parliament, Minister of Foreign Affairs Caspar Veldkamp outlined measures to be taken if Israel does not comply with the EU-Israel treaty on access to humanitarian aid.
One of these measures? The suspension of trade between Israel and the European Union.
The Netherlands will take the fight to the EU
According to RTL Nieuws, the Netherlands will advocate for the trade suspension if Israel doesn’t comply with international humanitarian law.
READ MORE | The Netherlands is calling for a ceasefire in Gaza — while also being the largest EU investor in Israel
In a video shot by the outlet, Veldkamp stresses that this will be a significant financial hit, involving “billions in Israeli exports”.
Veldkamp has also touched on Hamas’ involvement in the war, stressing that it “cannot have a role in the future of Gaza” and must give up its weapons and release Israeli hostages.
https://t.co/Fq6CSqsP7F pic.twitter.com/3Unu4U6d0o
— Caspar Veldkamp (@ministerBZ) July 28, 2025
The EU may also suspend Israel’s access to European research funding
Last Monday, Prime Minister Schoof and various members of the Dutch parliament had an additional meeting about the situation in Gaza.
Taking to X, he writes that “the Netherlands supports the plan to suspend Israeli participation in the EU research programme Horizon.”
This plan has gathered traction in the European Commission, which has now proposed a partial suspension of Israel’s involvement in Horizon Europe.
If signed, this decision will temporarily close the door on Israel’s access to emerging technology with military implications, such as cybersecurity, drones, and artificial intelligence.
It will not, however, affect the participation of Israeli universities and researchers that are currently engaged in collaborative projects with Horizon Europe.
While the EU member states have yet to approve the proposal, one thing is crystal clear: the Netherlands is starting to draw a line.
What do you think of the Netherlands’ current stance? Tell us all your thoughts in the comments below!
Image: Ministerie van Buitenlandse Zaken/Wikimedia Commons/CC2.0
