Israel Expels Dutch Diplomats Over Settlement Product Sanctions

Israel's Foreign Ministry announced that Dutch diplomats operating with the Palestinian Authority will be expelled from Israel within a week. This action is a direct response to the sanctions against settlement products that recently took effect in the Netherlands, which Israel views as being strictly enforced.

The Dutch sanctions prohibit not only the import but also the buying and selling of Israeli products originating from beyond the Green Line, including the Golan Heights and East Jerusalem. The Dutch Customs authority has stated these regulations apply even to personal luggage of travelers, with violations potentially leading to fines and up to six years in prison under Dutch law.

Following the implementation of these sanctions, Israeli travelers to the Netherlands have reported experiencing intrusive baggage searches at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport. Social media documentation showed electronic signs at the airport informing passengers of the new regulations. While the extent and continuation of these searches remain unclear, Israel's Foreign Ministry has warned travelers about potential difficulties and lengthy, "offensive" inspections.

In retaliation, Israel has expelled Dutch diplomats accredited to work with the Palestinian Authority. This move mirrors a similar action taken against the United Kingdom after it led a coordinated effort by 12 countries to impose sanctions on settlement products, which also resulted in the closure of the British consulate in East Jerusalem. Israel stated that countries acting "hostilely" against it will lose influence in the region.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar specified that Dutch diplomats working in Ramallah must return their Israeli-issued diplomatic documentation within seven days, after which their immunities and rights granted by Israel will expire. The ministry clarified that the Netherlands can continue to represent its interests with the Palestinians from within the Palestinian territories, not from Israel. Israel reiterated its commitment to taking reciprocal measures against any actions deemed harmful.