This has put the Netherlands in an unprecedented political crisis. As a key member of the European Union, the Netherlands has faced national pressure in recent months to take a more stringent attitude towards Israeli actions.
Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp resigned last night after a military attack on Gaza failed to secure cabinet support for further sanctions against Israel.
According to Deutsche Welle, four other ministers — Eddivan Hijmu (Minister of Social Affairs), Judith Outermark (Minister of the Interior), Apobruins (Minister of Education) and Daniel Jansen (Minister of Health), resigned shortly after the announcement of Verdkamp.
Veldkamp, a member of the Central Right Party’s “New Social Contract,” said on Friday that he was unable to reach an agreement on “meaningful measures” against Israel and repeatedly faced resistance from his colleagues on existing sanctions.
His efforts included banning entry into far-right Israeli Israeli ministers Bezarel Sumotrich and Itamar Ben Gwil, citing their role in inciting settler violence against Palestinians. Veldkamp also cancelled three licenses for Navy ship parts, warning of Gaza’s “advanced circumstances” and “the risk of unwanted ultimate use.”
With his departure, the Netherlands remains without a foreign minister while the EU considers security guarantees for Ukraine and continues negotiations with the US over tariffs.
Al Jazeera also reported that after his resignation, all pastors and state secretaries of the “New Social Contract” party expressed support for Verdkamp and resigned in solidarity with the Dutch caretaker government.
After the previous government lost its trust in Parliament, the current Dutch ministers, formed on June 3, 2025, serve as caregiver governments, will continue their duties until a new cabinet is formed and sworn in.
MNA