Dutch PM Schoof Reflects on Gaza Crisis and Coalition Collapse in Candid Interview

Dutch PM Schoof: On Gaza, Israel, and a Collapsed Coalition AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - SEPTEMBER 28, 2025 - In a candid interview with Talk to Al Jazeera, outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof reflected on his tenure, discussing the complex issues of Gaza, Israel, NATO, migration, and the collapse of his coalition. Schoof's government collapsed in September 2025, following months of internal disagreements over policy. The prime minister acknowledged that the coalition's demise was a result of "deep-seated differences" between parties. "We had fundamental disagreements on issues like Gaza and Israel," Schoof said. "It became clear that we couldn't continue to govern together." On the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Schoof expressed concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza. "The situation is dire, with millions of Palestinians living under blockade," he stated. "We need a two-state solution, but it's not just about Israel and Palestine - it's also about the international community's role." Schoof emphasized that the Netherlands would continue to advocate for a peaceful resolution. Schoof also addressed NATO's role in European security, citing the alliance's importance in maintaining stability on the continent. "NATO is a cornerstone of our defense policy," he said. "We need to work together to counter threats from Russia and other nations." Regarding migration, Schoof acknowledged that the Netherlands had faced significant challenges in integrating refugees into society. "We've made progress, but there's still much work to be done," he stated. "We need to balance our humanitarian obligations with the need for effective integration policies." In a separate development, Schoof's government was criticized for its handling of migration issues by opposition parties. According to Geert Wilders, leader of the Freedom Party (PVV), Schoof's coalition had failed to address the root causes of migration effectively. "We need stricter border controls and more effective deportation policies," Wilders said in a statement. In response to criticism from Wilders' party, Schoof maintained that his government had taken steps to improve integration policies. "We've increased funding for language training and job placement programs," he stated. "However, we recognize that there's still much work to be done." As the Netherlands prepares for new elections, Schoof's legacy as prime minister remains a topic of debate. While some credit him with navigating complex global issues, others criticize his handling of domestic policy. The collapse of Schoof's coalition has left the country in a state of uncertainty ahead of the upcoming elections. As the Netherlands navigates its next steps, one thing is clear: the country will continue to grapple with the complex challenges of migration, security, and international relations. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*