The government of the Netherlands announced on Thursday that it will not recognize a Palestinian state at this stage, despite mounting public concern over the situation in Gaza. Officials warned that the ongoing conflict is increasingly compromising Israel’s own security.

This stance diverges from that of some other NATO members. France has indicated it will recognize Palestinian statehood in September, while the United Kingdom has said it could follow suit unless Israel takes concrete steps to alleviate suffering in Gaza and agrees to a ceasefire.

Speaking during an emergency parliamentary session convened during the summer recess, Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp stated, “The Netherlands is not currently considering the recognition of a Palestinian state.”

Veldkamp also rejected calls to stop importing arms from Israel, noting that the Netherlands prioritizes procurement from domestic and EU sources before turning to third countries.

However, he noted that the Netherlands has already taken meaningful actions, including imposing travel bans on two Israeli ministers. “This war is no longer just,” he said, “and it is now undermining Israel’s own security and identity.”

Outside the parliament building in The Hague, approximately 250 pro-Palestinian protesters gathered, demanding stronger action from the Netherlands. Local media reported that demonstrators carried signs and chanted for an immediate ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid.