Dutch Opposition Leader Geert Wilders Supports Renewed Settlement in West Bank Amid Import Ban

Geert Wilders, leader of the Dutch opposition and a leading candidate for prime minister, began his visit to Israel with a tour of the renewed settlement of Sha'noar in northern Samaria (West Bank). Hosted by Yossi Dagan, head of the Samaria Regional Council, Wilders expressed strong support for resettling the entire Samaria region, calling it "the only way" and emphasizing the area's historical and religious significance to Israelis.

The visit comes shortly after the Dutch government banned imports from Judea and Samaria, a move that has sparked controversy. Wilders criticized this policy and highlighted the security importance of the settlements, echoing Dagan's remarks that the northern Samaria settlements form a vital security belt for Israel, especially in light of recent events on October 7.

Wilders praised Dagan as a courageous leader and reaffirmed the connection between Israel's security and that of Europe and the Netherlands, stating, "We act together and will win together." This is Wilders' second visit to the region within two years, both times hosted by Dagan. His previous visit had stirred political debate in the Netherlands due to its focus on the West Bank.

During the coming days, Wilders is expected to continue touring the Samaria and Jordan Valley areas and meet with senior Israeli government officials. His visit is anticipated to generate further discussion amid ongoing tensions over Dutch policy toward West Bank products and settlements.