Israel Revokes Diplomatic Status for Dutch Representatives in Ramallah

Israeli Foreign Minister G Gideon Saar has ordered the revocation of diplomatic status for Dutch representatives stationed in Ramallah, operating under the Palestinian Authority. This decision, announced on Tuesday evening, is a direct response to the Netherlands' law prohibiting the import of goods from Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights. Saar stated that the Dutch Embassy in Israel was notified that these diplomats must return their Israeli-issued diplomatic documents within seven days. Saar emphasized that from Israel's perspective, these representatives will lose their diplomatic standing and associated privileges and immunities. "If the Dutch wish to continue representing their interests in relations with the Palestinians, they can do so from the territory of the Palestinian Authority, but not from Israel," the minister explained. This move creates a difficult situation for the Dutch representatives, as they will no longer be able to enter or exit Israel using their diplomatic passports, nor will they have immunity, freedom of movement, or access to diplomatic vehicles. Their channels for communication with Israeli official bodies will also be closed. Saar also recalled that last month, Israel excluded the Dutch mission from the International Support Center for Gaza, located in Kiryat Gat, in retaliation for Dutch government actions against Israel. "I reiterate: Israel will not ignore steps that harm us. Any country acting hostilely and unilaterally against Israel will lose its influence and significance in the region," Saar concluded.