Michiel Servaes, director of Oxfam Novib, is spearheading continued demonstrations and advocacy efforts regarding the situation in Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for international action. Despite a massive demonstration in The Hague that drew approximately one hundred thousand people, Servaes remains committed to pressuring the Dutch government and the international community to take concrete steps, including potential sanctions. He stresses that the deteriorating conditions in Gaza demand immediate attention and decisive action.

Servaes, who has been involved with the Palestinian cause for about forty years, expressed disappointment with the lack of immediate political outcomes following the large demonstration. He highlighted the need for continued pressure through various channels, including public discussions and further demonstrations. A second “Red Line” demonstration is planned for June 15th, aimed at influencing upcoming parliamentary debates and European summit meetings where decisions regarding sanctions could be made.

The May 18th demonstration saw 37,000 people registered, evolving from a planned human chain into a 5-kilometer “human trunk” through The Hague. Servaes, despite dealing with a knee injury, actively oversaw the preparations and participated in the march. He walked at the front of the procession with directors from other organizations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a peaceful and orderly event.

Servaes’ commitment to the Palestinian cause stems from his early exposure to the issue and his subsequent studies of the Second World War and Israel. He previously served as a diplomat and a member of parliament, using his positions to advocate for a more balanced perspective on the conflict. His experiences, including a recent trip to Gaza, have reinforced his conviction that the international community must do more to address the humanitarian crisis and hold those responsible accountable.

Oxfam Novib continues to provide essential services in Gaza, such as maintaining water purification plants and supporting small-scale agricultural projects. Servaes remains in close contact with his staff in Gaza, highlighting the ongoing challenges and the urgent need for assistance. He criticized Prime Minister Schoof’s response to the situation, particularly his lack of acknowledgement of the demonstration and the government’s stance on Israel.