August 8, 2025 | 03:43 pm
The right-wing government of Netherlands on Thursday, August 7, 2025, declared that it will not recognize the state of Palestine despite growing public concerns about the situation in Gaza. As reported by The Jerusalem Post, Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp reiterated this statement during an emergency debate in the parliament.
"The Netherlands is not planning to recognize a Palestinian state at this time," Veldkamp stated.
This stance contrasts with some NATO allies, especially France, which stated its intention to recognize Palestine in the coming September.
The UK also said it would do so if Israel does not take steps to alleviate the suffering in Gaza, which currently experiences a famine, and agrees to a ceasefire.
Refusal to Halt Weapon Imports from Israel
According to a report from Times of Israel, Veldkamp rejected the call to halt weapon imports from Israel. He stated that the Netherlands prioritizes procurement from domestic sources and the European Union before buying from a third country.
Nevertheless, he acknowledged that the government has taken significant steps, including imposing travel bans on two right-wing 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 said.
Protests in The Hague
Approximately 250 pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside the parliament building in The Hague on the same day. They carried posters and banners, calling for an immediate ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. Local media reported chants and banners demanding the Dutch government take firmer action against Israel.
This stance by the Netherlands marks a difference in diplomatic approach compared to some of its Western allies. Despite harshly criticizing Israel's military operation in Gaza, the government refrains from giving official recognition to Palestine or halting strategic trade relations with Israel.
Global support for the recognition of the Palestinian state continues to grow. As of mid-2025, at least 147 out of 193 United Nations (UN) member states have recognized Palestinian sovereignty.
According to World Population Review data, the majority of countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have granted recognition since the declaration of Palestinian independence on November 15, 1988.
In Europe, a new wave of recognition emerged in May 2024, when Ireland, Spain, and Norway declared their support.
A month later, Slovenia followed suit, with Barbados, Jamaica, and several countries in the Caribbean falling in step. Support also came from major countries such as China, Russia, India, Indonesia, South Africa, and Brazil, which have long recognized the Palestinian statehood.
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