Mr. President,

The Kingdom of the Netherlands is appalled by the immense suffering of civilians due to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. We condemn the terrorist attacks by Hamas on the 7th of October and the escalation of violence following from this. It is crucial that an immediate ceasefire is implemented in line with UNSC resolution 2728 and resolution 2720 to put an end to the suffering and that all hostages are released.

The Kingdom of the Netherlands strongly supports the need for a massive increase in humanitarian assistance and the need for accountability and justice for violations of international law, in line with several elements in this resolution. The latter applies to all parties to the conflict.

However, there are several elements in this resolution we do not agree with, including language that pre-empts current judicial investigations into alleged breaches of international humanitarian law. The Netherlands also has serious reservations with regard to the references to the right of self-defense and the transfer of military equipment. The Netherlands assesses transfer of military equipment with special caution and vigilance on a case-by-case basis in line with our obligations under the Arms Trade Treaty and EU Council Common Position on exports of military technology and equipment.

Given the fact that the Kingdom of the Netherlands finds elements in this resolution it agrees with and elements it does not agree with, the Kingdom of the Netherlands has decided to vote ABSTAIN on this resolution.

I thank you.