Middle East

What happened in the Dutch debate on the Iran–US–Israel war?

The Dutch House of Representatives debated the war in Iran on Wednesday morning, focusing on the government’s stance toward the attacks, a possible return of Dutch diplomats to Tehran, and a planned international mission in the Strait of Hormuz.

A Dutch return to Damascus? The Netherlands explores reopening its embassy in Syria

The Netherlands is quietly laying the groundwork for a diplomatic return to Syria. After years without an embassy in Damascus, the Dutch government is taking another step towards restoring its presence on the ground — and exploring what could come next. Which options are now on the table, how far is

Dutch government downplays reports of U.S. push to expand nuclear deployments in Europe

Reports that Washington is exploring the expansion of U.S. nuclear weapon deployments across more NATO countries have sparked political concern — but the Dutch government says it has seen no concrete proposal. Behind the carefully worded denials, however, ministers reaffirm a hard reality: nuclear deterrence remains central to Europe’s

☀️ The Hague Insider Summer Briefing: The Netherlands and Israel — balancing a historic friendship with growing pressure and sanctions

Every Saturday and Sunday this summer, The Hague Insider publishes a special Summer Briefing, taking a deep dive into the politicians, companies and policy issues shaping The Hague, Brussels and beyond. Today: Dutch policy towards Israel. Once among Israel's closest allies in Europe, the Netherlands is now navigating

☀️ The Hague Insider Summer Briefing: Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten — five months into an experiment

Every Saturday and Sunday this summer, The Hague Insider publishes a special Summer Briefing, taking a deep dive into the politicians, companies and policy issues shaping The Hague, Brussels and beyond. Today: Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten — the Netherlands' first D66 prime minister, the country's youngest-ever