Netherlands has said that it plans to prohibit the import of goods made in Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories, as calls increase for action on the genocide in Gaza and the expansion of settlements in the West Bank.
Foreign Minister David van Weel informed parliament on Wednesday that he has instructed his ministry to prepare a governmental decree to implement the ban. He mentioned that the action would be executed “as soon as possible,” without providing a specific timeframe.
The decision follows months of discussions within the Dutch government about how to react to Israel’s continued flouting of international law. In July, the Netherlands enacted travel restrictions on two far-right Israeli cabinet members who advocated for the removal of Palestinians from Gaza. At that time, the government refrained from taking broader actions.
Last month, former foreign minister Casper Veldkamp stepped down, stating he did not have sufficient backing from the cabinet to pursue additional measures against Israel. His successor, Van Weel, has adopted a different stance by moving forward with restrictions on goods associated with settlements.
The Netherlands is among the largest European consumers of Israeli products, yet Van Weel did not reveal the specific amount of imports that are directly connected to settlements. He affirmed that this policy would focus solely on items produced in areas occupied by Israel since 1967.
Most nations and the United Nations view Israeli settlements in the West Bank as illegal under international law. In addition to officially recognized settlements, there are outposts that often initiate without governmental authorization but are frequently legitimized afterward.
Moreover, Van Weel stated that the Netherlands would support European Commission proposals to revoke certain trade benefits that Israel enjoys under its association agreement with the European Union. The Commission is evaluating whether Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank are in alignment with the commitments outlined in the agreement.
The Dutch government’s decision contributes to broader discussions in Europe regarding trade and diplomatic relationships with Israel. Some EU member states advocate for more stringent measures, while others are cautious about jeopardizing existing relations.