THE HAGUE, July 29 — The Dutch government may take measures against Israel if agreements to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza are not upheld, Prime Minister Dick Schoof announced Monday in a statement on social media platform X.
Schoof has convened an emergency meeting in The Hague during the summer recess, bringing together government ministers including Deputy Prime Minister Sophie Hermans, Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp and Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans, to discuss the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza.
“The government’s goal is crystal clear: the people in Gaza must have immediate, unhindered, and safe access to humanitarian aid,” Schoof wrote.
Earlier this month, the European Union (EU) reached a deal with Israel aimed at facilitating greater humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip.
That agreement is set to be reviewed Tuesday by EU member states. Should Israel be found to have fallen short in its commitments, further actions could be taken at the EU level.
The Dutch prime minister indicated that the Netherlands is also prepared to take unilateral steps if necessary.
“We are also considering national measures to increase the pressure,” Schoof warned, adding that he had conveyed this message directly to Israeli President Isaac Herzog during a phone call on Monday. (Xinhua)
