Dutch Airport Intensifies Scrutiny of Travelers From Israel Over Settlement Product Ban

The Netherlands has implemented a stringent ban on products originating from Israeli settlements, leading to heightened baggage inspections for travelers arriving from Israel at Schiphol Airport. The new regulations, officially in effect since September 22, target goods from the West Bank, the Golan Heights, and East Jerusalem. The ban encompasses all imported items, including personal belongings and souvenirs, and also penalizes companies that misrepresent product origins. Even products with only partial origins from these territories, such as a single ingredient, are subject to the sanctions, regardless of where the final product was manufactured. The law applies retroactively to purchases made before its enactment. Intentional violations carry penalties of up to six years imprisonment or substantial fines, while unintentional infractions can result in up to one year in prison.

Reports indicate that shortly after the ban took effect, passengers arriving from Tel Aviv at Schiphol were singled out, even in the "Nothing to Declare" lane. One customs official reportedly directed all travelers from Israel to a separate inspection area. All passengers on El Al flights were subjected to enhanced baggage screening. A unit of the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee has been specifically tasked with conducting additional checks on arrivals from Israel to identify prohibited items like wine, dates, and olives from East Jerusalem, the West Bank, or the Golan. Informational posters detailing banned items have been distributed near the checkpoints.

In response to the Dutch boycott, Israel announced on Sunday evening the revocation of diplomatic status for Dutch representatives stationed in Ramallah.