Peace Requires Courage: Dialogue Ahead of Dutch Parliamentary Debate on Sanctions Against Israel

8 augustus 2025

On 7 August 2025, Vrouwen voor Vrede – Den Haag (Women for Peace) — a proud member of our network — organised a timely hybrid dialogue event at the Humanity Hub in The Hague, just before the Dutch Parliament debated possible sanctions against Israel.

The gathering brought together Palestinian and Israeli peace activists, Dutch Members of Parliament, and civil society representatives for an open exchange on the urgent need for action.

The consensus was clear: action is needed now.

As Dr. Ofer Nur emphasised:

“This is not a war between peoples but between extremists on both sides versus moderates. Dialogue with the current Israeli government is difficult, but dialogue between civil society actors must be strengthened.”

This initiative was supported by our Dutch Network, coordinated by Arab-West Foundation. It reflects our shared mission to advance dialogue, connection, and sustainable peace at a time when political polarisation and escalation — such as the recent Israeli cabinet decision to occupy Gaza — make these efforts more vital than ever.

We thank Inge Marit Pols-Wielinga and Hanneke Gelderblom-Lankhout for their inspiring leadership in hosting this important event, and we are proud to have contributed to making it possible.