Thousands of people formed a human chain in The Hague on Sunday, May 18, to demonstrate their support for Palestine. The demonstration, initiated by Oxfam Novib, aimed to pressure the Dutch government to take a stronger stance on the issue.

The event drew an estimated one hundred thousand participants, exceeding initial expectations and stretching for five kilometers through the city. Michiel Servaes, the director of Oxfam Novib, spearheaded the demonstration, driven by his long-standing commitment to the Palestinian cause.

The demonstration included participation from over ninety organizations, ranging from Christian aid groups to the FNV trade union federation. The organizers sought to create an inclusive event, welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds.

Anton Philips, a 93-year-old descendant of the Philips founders, was among the attendees, emphasizing the broad support for the cause. He presented Servaes with a list of action points, including suspending the Association Agreement and freezing military cooperation.

Despite the large turnout, Servaes expressed disappointment that no motions to sharpen the Dutch position on the issue were adopted in the House. He remains determined to continue advocating for Palestine, announcing a second Red Line demonstration scheduled for June 15.