Tens Of Thousands Rally In Dutch Gaza Protest

Published: Sunday, June 15, 2025 at 12:30 pm

**Tens of Thousands Protest Dutch Government's Stance on Gaza**

The Hague, Netherlands - Tens of thousands of demonstrators, many clad in red, gathered in The Hague on Sunday to protest the Dutch government's perceived inaction regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Organized by rights groups including Amnesty International and Oxfam, the march culminated at the International Court of Justice. Protesters carried Palestinian flags and chanted slogans, calling for an end to what they described as a "genocide."

Demonstrators displayed banners with messages urging the government to take stronger action and to cease any perceived complicity in the conflict. Organizers specifically called on the Dutch government to intervene, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the perceived duty of the Netherlands to prevent further loss of life.

One protester, a 67-year-old pensioner, expressed the sentiment of many, stating the need for the conflict to cease. This demonstration follows a previous protest in May, which organizers claimed drew over 100,000 participants, making it the largest demonstration in the Netherlands in two decades. Police did not provide an estimate for that earlier event.

The Gaza conflict was initiated by the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas, resulting in the deaths of 1,219 people on the Israeli side and the taking of 251 hostages. Israel's retaliatory offensive has, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, resulted in at least 55,207 deaths, the majority of whom are civilians. The United Nations considers these figures reliable. The International Court of Justice is currently reviewing a case brought by South Africa, which alleges that Israel's actions in Gaza violate the 1948 UN Genocide Convention. Israel has strongly rejected these accusations.

BNN's Perspective: The ongoing conflict in Gaza is a complex and deeply emotional issue. While the right to protest and express concerns is fundamental in a democratic society, it is crucial to maintain a balanced perspective. The situation demands a commitment to international law, humanitarian principles, and a search for a peaceful resolution that respects the rights and security of all parties involved.

Keywords: Dutch Gaza Protest, The Hague, Amnesty International, Oxfam, International Court of Justice, Gaza Conflict, Palestinian Flags, Genocide, Dutch Government, Israel, Hamas, Civilian Deaths, South Africa, UN Genocide Convention, Protests

Full Story