Dutch Supreme Court Gives Government Six Weeks to Review Arms Export Policy to Israel

The Dutch Supreme Court has given the government six weeks to review its policy on arms exports to Israel. 

In its ruling, the court said it would not support imposing a ban on the export of fighter jet components to Israel, a step that rights groups had sought amid concerns over the war in Gaza.

The decision comes after months of legal and political debate in the Netherlands. Earlier this year, a Dutch appeals court ordered the government to halt the export of F-35 fighter jet parts, citing the risk that the equipment could be used in violations of international humanitarian law. The government, however, appealed to the Supreme Court, arguing that arms export decisions fall under the authority of the executive.

Across Europe, governments have faced increasing scrutiny over their defense ties with Israel. The EU’s Common Position on arms exports requires member states to deny sales if there is a clear risk the weapons may be used to commit human rights abuses. Humanitarian organizations have repeatedly called on European countries, including the Netherlands, to suspend arms sales until assurances are given that international law will be respected.

While the Supreme Court refused to endorse a ban, its ruling places the responsibility back on the Dutch government, which must now reassess its export framework and decide whether current shipments can continue.