THE HAGUE - The heightened tensions between Venezuela and the United States, along with the increased U.S. military presence in the waters near Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao, do not pose a direct threat to the islands. That assurance was given by outgoing State Secretary for Kingdom Relations, Eddie van Marum (BBB), during a parliamentary debate on Tuesday.

Van Marum explained that there is ongoing communication between the Dutch ministries of Defence and Foreign Affairs and the local governments of the islands. Members of Parliament questioned whether the population itself is receiving sufficient updates. The state secretary responded that the island administrations are adequately informed, but that it is up to local leaders to communicate directly with their residents.

Still, some lawmakers expressed concern about the mood among islanders. NSC MP Faith Bruyning and GroenLinks-PvdA MP Raoul White pointed out that fear and uncertainty are indeed widespread. White also warned that the geopolitical conflict is already affecting tourism, one of the islands’ most vital economic sectors.

Van Marum acknowledged these concerns and said the government would take them into account, emphasizing that close monitoring of the regional situation will continue.

The ABC islands, located just off the Venezuelan coast, have long been considered strategically significant in the Caribbean. The Dutch government reiterated its commitment to maintaining stability and ensuring the safety of residents amid the ongoing tensions.