Summary
The Dutch ban on exporting F-35 fighter jet spare parts to Israel can remain, according to the Supreme Court’s senior legal advisor. Advocate general Paul Vlas stated the appeal court was “justified in concluding that there is a clear risk that Israel’s use of F-35 fighter jets could lead to serious violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza.” The export of military goods must be prohibited under international agreements if such a risk exists.
NGOs Oxfam Novib, Pax Nederland, and The Rights Forum filed a complaint, arguing that exporting U.S.-owned F-35 parts stored at Woensdrecht air base makes the Netherlands complicit in war crimes in Gaza. A lower court initially rejected the complaint, but an appeal court ruled in February that the risk of serious violations of humanitarian law is undeniable. Although the advocate general’s opinion is not binding, it is often followed. The Supreme Court will decide soon.