In brief
On Nov. 8, about 200,000 people marched in Amsterdam’s Red Line protest, calling on the Dutch government to increase political, economic and diplomatic pressure on Israel regarding the Gaza conflict. The demonstration remained largely peaceful, though four people were arrested and some clashes occurred. Dutch officials confirmed their commitment to a two‑state solution and to improving Gaza’s humanitarian situation.
Xinhua reported that a pro‑Palestinian protest called the “Red Line” drew roughly 200,000 participants in Amsterdam on Sunday, Nov. 8, with many wearing red clothing and carrying Palestinian flags and banners.
The demonstrators called on the Dutch government to step up political, economic and diplomatic pressure on Israel over the Gaza conflict, according to the source. The march was largely peaceful and orderly, but four people were arrested and clashes occurred at points along the route.
The Associated Press noted that tens of thousands, many dressed in red, had marched through Amsterdam demanding the Dutch government take stronger action against Israel over Gaza. The Times of Israel added that protesters carried signs reading “Stop the genocide.”
After the rally, Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen said public concern over the situation in the Palestinian territories and Israel was understandable, and that the cabinet remains committed to promoting stability in the Middle East, improving the humanitarian situation in Gaza and achieving a viable, democratic and independent Palestinian state alongside a secure Israel.
Prime Minister Rob Jetten, who had previously joined a Red Line protest before taking office, declined to attend, saying an appearance would be inappropriate for a prime minister. He said the government had taken measures targeting illegal settlements in the West Bank and was working with European partners to increase diplomatic pressure, stressing that a two‑state solution was the only path to lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians.
In late September, the Dutch government announced a ban on products from Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories, after which Israel revoked the diplomatic privileges and immunities of Dutch diplomats based in Ramallah.
