The Dutch government has decided to implement stricter controls on the export of military equipment and dual-use goods to Israel, following the collapse of the ceasefire in the Middle East.
The new policy will assess exports on a case-by-case basis, considering the ongoing security situation in Israel, the Palestinian territories, and the broader region.
Ministers for Foreign Trade Liesje Schreinemacher and Foreign Affairs Wopke Hoekstra outlined the change in response to questions from Dutch lawmakers. “The Cabinet is taking this step to allow for the assessment of all operations involving the supply of strategic goods to Israel before export and transit, in line with European export and transit regulations for military goods and dual-use items,” they explained.
As part of this shift, exporters to Israel will be required to apply for individual or general licenses, which will be reviewed for compliance with European regulations. The Dutch government also confirmed that since the outbreak of war in October 2023, following a Hamas attack on Israeli territory, no Dutch military equipment has been exported to Israel.
This decision comes after the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas militants ended on March 18.
