Netherlands limits military exports to “Israel”

The Dutch government has announced stricter export controls on military and dual-use goods headed to “Israel”, citing regional security concerns.

In a letter to parliament, Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp and Trade Minister Reinette Klever said all direct exports and transits of these goods will now undergo individual checks to ensure compliance with European Union regulations.

These shipments will no longer be covered under general export licenses.

“This is desirable considering the security situation in Israel, the Palestinian territories and the wider region,” the ministers said.

While exporters can still apply for permits, each request will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis under EU export control standards.

The government also clarified that no military exports to “Israel” have taken place under a general license since the outbreak of the aggression on Gaza.

However, the Netherlands had frequently used a general license for the export of "low-risk information security goods"—including items like network routers. Under the new policy, an estimated 50 to 100 individual permits will now need to be processed for such exports.

This move follows a Dutch court ruling last year that ordered the suspension of F-35 fighter jet part exports to Israel over concerns of potential violations of international law in Gaza. Israel has denied any such violations.