Israel Revokes Diplomatic Status for Dutch Representatives Over Boycott

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced on Sunday evening a series of firm measures against the Netherlands in response to the Dutch government's implementation of an economic boycott on products from Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights. Sa'ar stated that Dutch diplomats stationed in Ramallah must return all diplomatic documents issued by Israel within seven days. Failure to comply will result in the immediate cessation of their immunities and privileges within Israel.

Sa'ar clarified that these Dutch representatives will no longer be permitted to conduct diplomatic activities on Israeli soil. "If the Netherlands wishes to continue representing its interests vis-à-vis the Palestinians, they can do so from the territories of the Palestinian Authority, but not from the territory of the State of Israel," he declared. This action follows previous measures against the Netherlands, including the withdrawal of the Dutch mission from the International Support Center for Gaza in Kiryat Gat.

The Foreign Minister affirmed Israel's resolve to counter hostile actions, stating, "Any country that acts in a hostile and unilateral manner against Israel will lose its influence and weight in the region." Sa'ar also strongly criticized the Dutch government's handling of rising antisemitism in the Netherlands, accusing it of inaction and indirect complicity, suggesting that the Dutch government's anti-Israel policies fuel these issues.

Meanwhile, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee sharply criticized the Dutch boycott, citing reports of special customs checks for El Al passengers at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport. Huckabee described the situation as "absurd," noting that Dutch tourists returning from Bethlehem might face imprisonment for bringing back souvenirs, illustrating his point with a hypothetical Bethlehem souvenir box potentially leading to six years in prison.