News item | 01-08-2025 | 19:57
From 8 August 2025, the Netherlands will contribute to the provision of emergency aid to the population in Gaza. That happens in the form of airdrops of food and humanitarian goods. For this, Defense uses a C-130 transport aircraft from Jordan.
The Caspar Veldkamp of Foreign Affairs and Ruben Brekelmans of Defense report this today to the Lower House.
The food crisis in Gaza has deteriorated in such a way that according to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC scale) A scenario of famine unfolds. Large numbers of trucks with relief supplies are ready to enter the Gaza Strip, but have to do with barriers. That is why it has now been decided to supplement humanitarian aid with airdrops. In addition, the government emphasizes that the drops through the air do not detract from the importance of the aid via country.
The Netherlands performs the operation through the air in collaboration with international partners. These partners are Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg, Canada and the United Arab Emirates. Also consider contributing to other countries. Jordan coordinates the deployment.
Not without risk
Airdrops are not without danger. For example, there is a risk that citizens can be hit by the packages. In addition, there is a limited view of what happens to the goods.
In order to minimize the risks, precautions have been taken. Together with the Jordanian authorities, suitable locations to carry out the drops are selected and monitored. Hereby a carefully looked at a time in daylight, but also at weather conditions and the method of dropping. If the accuracy of the drop is at stake, it will not be executed.
Access about land priority
Access about land for professional, mandated aid organizations remains priority for the government. This is the most effective way to deliver relief supplies on a large scale. With, among other things, diplomatic pressure, the Netherlands continues to be committed to immediate, unhindered and safe access of humanitarian aid.
The expected deployment of airdrops Is yet 2 weeks.