A dispute over a proposed arms embargo against Israel has ignited a firestorm within the Dutch Labour Party (PvdA) and threatens to destabilize the upcoming merger with GroenLinks. Prominent party figures are voicing strong opposition to the new position, leading to passionate debate and a potential fracturing of unity.

The controversy stems from a motion calling for a complete arms embargo against Israel, including a halt to the delivery of parts for the Iron Dome defense system. This proposal, championed by Kati Piri, a Member of Parliament, has drawn sharp criticism from within the PvdA, with prominent figures arguing it could endanger Israeli civilians.

Former party leaders Ad Melkert, Job Cohen, and Lodewijk Asscher have submitted a counter-motion urging the board to reconsider the new Israel position. They argue that stopping arms deliveries would violate the party’s principle of solidarity and its commitment to protecting innocent citizens threatened by violence. The counter-motion is scheduled for a vote, with GroenLinks members also participating, increasing the likelihood of its rejection and potentially solidifying the parties’ stance on the arms embargo.

Frans Timmermans, a prominent figure within the PvdA, defended the arms embargo, arguing it would increase pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to negotiate and halt bombings. He acknowledged the concerns of supporters, particularly within the Jewish community, who believe the Iron Dome protects innocent lives from rocket attacks.

The debate highlights the challenge of uniting diverse viewpoints within the newly merged party. While GroenLinks-PvdA aims to be a broad movement that embraces different opinions, the Israel position risks alienating voters in the political center and jeopardizing the party’s ability to form a coalition with center parties.

The right and Christian parties in the Lower House have also reacted with disbelief to the new Israel position, further complicating the political landscape. The VVD, NSC, and ChristenUnie believe the motion goes too far, questioning whether the Israeli population should be denied the right to defend itself.