Dutch Foreign Minister Quits Over Government’s Gaza Policy
The Hague (Quds News Network)- Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp resigned on Friday. He said he could not continue in a government that refused stronger action against Israel’s genocide in Gaza and its settlement plans in the West Bank.
Veldkamp, part of the caretaker cabinet, told reporters that his decision came after weeks of frustration. “I have felt pushback in the cabinet for additional measures,” he said. He will formally submit his resignation.
The Dutch government collapsed on June 3. Since then, a caretaker minority has been running the country until elections in October. Analysts say it could take months before a new coalition is formed.
Veldkamp’s departure highlights growing splits in Europe over Israel’s crimes. He wanted tougher measures. But the rest of the cabinet opposed them. The government declined to support new sanctions or diplomatic moves.
Israel launched its latest offensive in Gaza with the stated aim of seizing Gaza City, forcing over one million civilians south.
Earlier on Friday, a global hunger monitor declared that famine is now present in Gaza City and surrounding areas. The report said starvation has reached critical levels after months of blockade and bombardment.
At the same time, Israel approved a major new settlement in the occupied West Bank. The project would cut across the territory and divide Palestinian villages. Experts warn it would make a future Palestinian state impossible.
Veldkamp’s resignation leaves the caretaker government weaker. With elections still months away, the Netherlands faces political uncertainty at home while navigating a growing international crisis abroad.
