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Netherlands Pushes EU to Review Israel Trade Deal Over Gaza Aid Restrictions

Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp calls for immediate action, citing violations of international humanitarian law and Article 2 of the EU-Israel agreement.

A Palestinian man embraces the body of his 5-year-old son, Adam Namrouti, who was killed in an overnight Israeli airstrike on a UN school used as a shelter, ahead of his burial at Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al-Balah, in the central Gaza Strip, Wednesday, May 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)
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Overview

  • The Netherlands has formally requested an urgent review of the EU-Israel association agreement, citing Israel's blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza as a breach of international law.
  • Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp criticized Israel's aid distribution system as incompatible with principles of neutrality and impartiality, further questioning its compliance with Article 2 of the agreement.
  • Veldkamp has withheld Dutch support for renewing the EU-Israel Action Plan until a compliance review is conducted, signaling a tougher EU stance on Israel's policies.
  • Germany, traditionally a strong ally of Israel, is also increasing scrutiny, with Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul set to visit Israel for discussions this weekend.
  • EU foreign ministers are expected to debate the treaty review and potential suspension of the agreement at a two-day meeting in Warsaw starting today.