News item | 23-01-2024 | 18:42
Zr.Ms. Holland returns to the Netherlands from the eastern part of the Mediterranean. Minister Kajsa Ollongren informed the House of this today. The navy ship has been sailing there since November to assist with possible evacuations or humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Ollongren calls the situation in the Middle East as worrying as ever. The situation at the border between Israel and Lebanon is very fragile. There is a risk of further expansion of the conflict in the region, she said. In addition, the people of Gaza require immediate, safe and unhindered humanitarian assistance on a large scale.
The Netherlands is prepared for various scenarios and is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East, the minister said.
In the Netherlands, a joint task force with 2 C-130 Hercules transport aircraft remains ready to take rapid action in the event of a possible evacuation. Previously it was in Cyprus. A small team of soldiers is still on the island for logistical purposes. This means units can be deployed quickly if necessary.
the Caribbean
Ollongren further reports that there will be no station ship available for the Caribbean in the near future. This is what Zr.Ms. Holland is planned. From mid-April, ‘the West’ can count on a naval ship again. Defense keeps a unit in the Netherlands on hand for unexpected situations or emergencies. Units permanently stationed in the Caribbean are also available for deployment.