Protesters block traffic in Rotterdam over docking of ship carrying F-35 parts from Israel

ROTTERDAM/ISTANBUL

A protest was staged in Rotterdam on Wednesday after a ship carrying F-35 fighter jet parts from Israel docked at the city’s port, drawing criticism from activists, who accuse the Netherlands of enabling arms transfers to the country despite a court ruling.

The large crowd, mostly consisting of Dutch citizens, gathered outside Rotterdam City Hall to denounce the arrival of the Maersk vessel.

“Maersk profits from genocide,” they chanted.

Speakers at the protest recalled a 2023 Dutch court ruling that ordered a halt to the export of F-35 components to Israel, citing violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza.

Despite the ruling, organizers claimed that Rotterdam municipality and port officials facilitated the docking of the ship through indirect channels, effectively aiding Israel’s military industry.

The vessel, they said, is part of a broader logistics network supporting Israel’s arms production.

Demonstrators temporarily blocked the street and tram lines in front of City Hall, later marching through the city center and staging a sit-in protest at a busy intersection leading to the Erasmus Bridge, halting traffic.

The Dutch government has faced increasing public pressure over its military and trade links with Israel amid the ongoing war in Gaza.