NATO & Defense

What to expect from the Dutch Defence White Paper: billions, drones and innovation

In the centre, Defence Minister Yesilgoz and Minister for Arms Procurement and Personnel Boswijk, flanked by the Secretary-General (left) and the Deputy Chief of Defence (right). / photo: MoD

The Dutch government is set to unveil a sweeping new Defence White Paper on Monday. With billions in new spending and a clear focus on high-tech warfare, the plans go far beyond incremental upgrades. But crucial details remain deliberately vague, according to insiders.

Rotterdam Holocaust commemoration proceeds with Mayor Schouten and Israeli Ambassador Zvi Aviner Vapni despite protests from activists and politicians

Will Rotterdam's annual Holocaust commemoration become a moment of remembrance — or another flashpoint in the city's increasingly polarized debate over Israel and Gaza? After days of speculation and political pressure, Mayor Carola Schouten has confirmed that she will attend and speak at Thursday's Holocaust

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