https://nltimes.nl/2025/07/25/dutch-mps-call-govt-recognize-palestinian-state-pro-gaza-protests-mount
Dutch MP's call gov't to recognize Palestinian state as pro-Gaza protests mount
Frans Timmermans has called on the Netherlands to follow France’s lead in recognizing Palestine as a state. “Macron is right. Recognition of Palestine is a necessary step toward peace,” the GroenLinks–PvdA leader wrote on X.
His statement follows the announcement that French President Emmanuel Macron will officially recognize Palestine at the UN General Assembly in September. “It’s time for the Netherlands to take that step as well,” Timmermans added. “Netanyahu wants to wipe Gaza off the map and drive out the people of Gaza through violence and starvation. That The Hague looks the other way and does nothing is intolerable.”
Political support for recognition is growing. Sarah Dobbe (SP) urged the government to follow France’s example. D66 leader Rob Jetten said, “Prime Minister Schoof, VVD, and NSC could take a cue from Paris.” Stephan van Baarle (DENK) submitted parliamentary questions, and the Party for the Animals also backed the call.
Not everyone agrees. Diederik van Dijk (SGP) called the plan “completely immoral,” arguing that it would force Israel to give up land and compromise its security without guaranteeing peace. “Gaza proves that this does not work,” he said.
