The Hague: In a historic move to ensure maximum security for the upcoming NATO summit, the Netherlands has officially launched Operation Orange Shield, a massive security initiative involving military, police, air and naval forces. The operation marks the largest security deployment in Dutch history, aimed at protecting world leaders and maintaining order during the high-stakes diplomatic event set to take place on June 24 and 25 at the World Forum in The Hague.
According to Dutch authorities, nearly 10,000 security personnel including police officers, soldiers, and special forces will be stationed across The Hague and surrounding regions. The operation also includes F-35 fighter jets, combat helicopters, bomb disposal teams, air-defense systems, and seven naval frigates positioned off the Dutch coast, ensuring robust security from both air and sea.
The summit will bring together 6,000 delegates from 32 NATO member states, including key global figures such as U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and other high-ranking defense and foreign policy leaders. Their arrival will trigger a tight sequence of security protocols, including military-escorted convoys from Schiphol Airport to The Hague and restricted airspace and maritime zones around the city.
As a gesture of diplomatic courtesy, King Willem-Alexander will host a formal state dinner on the evening of June 25, setting the stage for crucial summit discussions. One of the key topics up for debate is NATO’s proposed defense spending benchmark of 5% of GDP—a controversial target strongly supported by outgoing NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, yet drawing caution from member states like Spain.
Meanwhile, the Dutch police are preparing for a wave of protests and demonstrations during the summit. Environmental group Extinction Rebellion, Palestinian solidarity activists, and LGBTQ+ rights campaigners have all announced their plans to hold peaceful protests. Law enforcement authorities have emphasized that while the right to protest will be protected, any form of public disorder will be dealt with firmly to ensure the summit proceeds without disruption.
Operation Orange Shield symbolizes the Netherlands’ commitment not just to NATO security, but also to ensuring global diplomatic cooperation occurs within a safe and stable environment. With international tensions running high and major global issues on the table, the upcoming NATO summit is expected to be a defining moment in shaping the alliance’s future—and the Dutch are leaving no stone unturned in making sure it unfolds securely.