Some Dutch MPs have expressed concern about attempts by the Israeli government to influence political and public opinion in the Netherlands, after Israel was named for the first time in a report on foreign interference by the counter terrorism agency NCTV, the Volkskrant reported on Thursday.

The NCTV usually highlights countries such as Russia, China and Iran in its assessments of foreign interference, particularly when it involves espionage or sabotage. While Israel is not accused of such action, the NCTV did say it actively seeks to sway Dutch political discourse.

One example cited is a report issued by Israel’s ministry of diaspora affairs in the wake of the Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv football riots in late 2024.

The report blamed several Dutch pro-Palestinian groups for the violence and was distributed directly to selected political parties, journalists and via social media – without informing the Dutch government, which would normally be standard procedure.

The NCTV warned that Israeli interference has also included “public threats” towards international institutions based in the Netherlands, including the International Criminal Court (ICC), in response to arrest warrants for prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant.

MPs from several parties said they are concerned about the findings. Kati Piri (GroenLinks-PvdA) told the paper the findings were “alarming” and comparable to interference by Russia, China and Iran. D66’s Jan Paternotte also saw parallels and said the Netherlands “must be less naïve” about foreign influence.

Denk leader Stephan van Baarle said the report confirmed what his party has been warning about for years. He criticised what he called a “double standard” on foreign interference, pointing out that Denk has faced repeated allegations of ties to the Turkish government, claims the party denies.

“We see debates being held about interference from some countries, which is right, but the same scrutiny is missing when it comes to Israel,” he said.

However, several parties declined to comment on the NCTV’s findings. The BBB, VVD and ChristenUnie did not respond to questions from the Volkskrant.

The Dutch government has adopted a tougher line on Israel in recent weeks and has decided to support export curbs over what it described as an “intolerable and indefensible” situation in Gaza.