The Dutch government has announced stricter export regulations on military equipment and dual-use goods to Israel, following the collapse of the fragile ceasefire in Gaza. The move reflects rising concerns over escalating violence and growing pressure to align arms export policies with international humanitarian law.
As of this week, all direct exports and transits of military-related materials to Israel will require either individual or global licenses, according to a joint statement by Dutch Trade Minister Reinette Klever and Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp, reported by Politico and TASR. These shipments will now be assessed on a case-by-case basis, ensuring full compliance with EU regulations. General export permits will no longer apply.
The policy shift comes after the breakdown of a temporary truce between Israel and Hamas on March 18, which led to renewed hostilities in Gaza. In the 24 hours following the ceasefire’s collapse, Israeli forces reportedly killed at least 57 Palestinians in the enclave.
“The evolving security situation in Israel, the Palestinian territories, and the broader Middle East necessitates this updated approach,” stated the Dutch ministers in a letter addressed to Parliament.
The Netherlands joins a growing number of EU nations re-evaluating arms export policies as global scrutiny over Israel’s military actions intensifies. Human rights organizations have welcomed the decision, urging other countries to review their own export criteria.
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