Netherlands Says It Will Recognize Palestinian State “Later,” Urges Political Process

The Netherlands supports the recognition of a Palestinian state but is not ready to take the step now, caretaker Foreign Minister David van Weel told the United Nations on Monday. He emphasised that recognition must come as part of a broader political process that should begin immediately, without specifying a timeline. Van Weel reaffirmed the Netherlands’ support for a two-state solution and stressed the urgent need to end violence.
Van Weel also clarified that the decision not to recognise Palestine was not intended to spare Israel. He condemned recent threats from Israel to annex the West Bank and said the priority is pressuring Israel to engage in negotiations. So far, Dutch action has included an entry ban for two extremist Israeli ministers, pushing the EU to review its trade deal with Israel, and pledging to ban imports from settlements in Palestinian territory.
Meanwhile, Palestinians in the West Bank view recognition by Western states as a hopeful but uncertain step. Gaza continues to suffer under intense Israeli bombardment, with at least 65,344 killed, including 19,424 children, and reports of a phase 5 famine as access to aid is blocked.