Dutch Foreign Minister Kaspar Veldkamp announced his resignation on Friday evening following an unsuccessful government debate over the possibility of imposing sanctions on Israel.
According to the Dutch news agency ANP, Veldkamp explained that he could not continue in his role under the current circumstances.
“I see that I am not in a position to take significant additional measures to put pressure on Israel,” Veldkamp stated after stepping down.
The resignation comes amid growing political divisions within the Dutch government regarding the country’s foreign policy stance toward Israel, particularly following escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Veldkamp, who had served as the Netherlands’ top diplomat since 2023, was seen as a strong advocate for a more assertive European role in international conflicts. His departure is expected to increase uncertainty within Prime Minister Dick Schoof’s cabinet as it navigates sensitive debates on foreign policy and human rights.
The Dutch Parliament is scheduled to hold an emergency session next week to discuss the implications of Veldkamp’s resignation and the government’s next steps regarding Israel.
