Israel Revokes Dutch Diplomatic Privileges Over Settlement Goods Ban
Israel revoked the diplomatic status of Dutch officials in Ramallah after the Netherlands banned imports of goods from Israeli settlements.
The Government of Israel revoked the diplomatic status and privileges of Dutch officials representing the Netherlands at the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah on September 27, 2026. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar gave the diplomats seven days to return their Israeli-issued credentials, after which their immunities will expire. The move restricts the diplomats' movement but does not close the Dutch mission.
This retaliation follows a Dutch ban on all goods produced in Israeli settlements in the West Bank, the Golan Heights, and east Jerusalem, which took effect on September 22. The sanctions apply to commercial shipments and personal luggage, including souvenirs. Customs officers and the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee have begun searching passengers arriving at Schiphol Airport from Tel Aviv, specifically targeting those on El Al flights. Intentional attempts to circumvent these rules carry penalties of up to six years in prison.
This escalation follows an August incident where Israel expelled Dutch representatives from a Gaza coordination center. Israel has taken similar actions against the United Kingdom, including closing the British Consulate in East Jerusalem after London implemented settlement sanctions. While France and Canada have also announced bans, Israel has not taken reciprocal action against them. U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee criticized the Dutch ban as "insane."
