The Dutch government has withdrawn three export licences for naval parts to Israel due to “deteriorating conditions in Gaza” and concerns over “undesirable end use,” Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp said.

Since October 2023, eight military export licences have been granted to Israel, including for Iron Dome components, while eleven applications were rejected.

Human rights groups argue the Netherlands fails to properly assess the risk of arms being used in violations and have launched legal action to stop all military exports to Israel. The case is set for 3 September.

A previous court ruling blocked exports of F-35 parts to Israel, now under appeal. Experts say Israel could easily replace blocked components via the US, but a Europe-wide ban would have more impact.

The Dutch government will continue buying Israeli weapons, citing urgent military modernisation needs.