A Dutch court has ordered the government to review the license for exporting F-35 parts to Israel.

The Supreme Court of the Netherlands on October 3, 2023, ruled on the need to review the current suspended license for the export of F-35 fighter parts to Israel. This occurred in response to concerns that these parts could be used in violation of international law.

Details of the Decision

According to the court’s ruling, the suspension of exports will remain in effect until the government completes the license review. Vice President of the court, Martijn Polak, noted that the government has six weeks for this.

In its decision, the court stated that the appellate court in The Hague exceeded its authority when it prohibited the supply of F-35 parts to Israel in February 2024. The ban was based on the risk of violating international law. This decision led to the suspension of exports. The situation has intensified against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, as well as political instability in the Netherlands.

The country is approaching general elections scheduled for October 29, which increases uncertainty.

Context of the Investigation

The case was initiated at the end of 2023 by three Dutch human rights organizations. They claimed that the transfer of F-35 parts makes the Netherlands an accomplice to possible war crimes allegedly committed by Israel during the conflict with Hamas. Israel denies all allegations related to illegal actions during its operation in Gaza.