Amsterdam: In the wake of the Dutch government's collapse, caretaker Prime Minister Dick Schoof is urgently appealing to parliament for support on critical defense and security policies. This plea comes just three weeks before the Netherlands is set to host a pivotal NATO summit.

The government fell after far-right leader Geert Wilders withdrew his Party for Freedom (PVV) from the ruling coalition, citing dissatisfaction with the pace of implementing stricter immigration controls. Schoof condemned the timing of the withdrawal as "unnecessary and irresponsible," emphasizing the need for decisive action on national and international challenges.

Addressing the 150-seat lower house, Schoof urged lawmakers to support key policy decisions related to military aid for Ukraine, defense spending, and domestic issues such as housing and the cost of living. He highlighted the importance of unity in the face of global instability and the upcoming NATO summit, where member states will discuss increasing defense spending targets.

Wilders, reaffirming his hardline anti-immigration stance, expressed intentions to become the next prime minister, despite his party's declining popularity. Opposition leader Frans Timmermans criticized Wilders for causing political instability but pledged to cooperate with the caretaker government on security matters.

A snap election is anticipated in the autumn, with the political landscape remaining uncertain amid ongoing debates over immigration and defense policies.