Israel has withdrawn the diplomatic credentials of Dutch officials working in the occupied West Bank, intensifying a diplomatic rift with the Netherlands over the latter’s restrictions on goods from Israeli settlements. The Israeli government informed the Dutch Embassy that its diplomats stationed in Ramallah have a week to return their Israeli-issued diplomatic documents, according to Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar.
This development follows the Netherlands’ recent decision to impose restrictions on goods originating from Israeli settlements in the West Bank, a measure that came into effect on September 22. Israel has consistently opposed international actions targeting its settlements and has criticized nations that impose restrictions or take other actions related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Minister Sa’ar stated that Dutch officials who wish to continue their activities in the West Bank may seek authorization from the Palestinian Authority. This move signals a further escalation in the ongoing diplomatic tensions between Israel and various European countries concerning settlement policies and the broader situation in the Palestinian territories.
The revocation of diplomatic credentials is the latest in a series of disputes reflecting the strained relations between Israel and European nations taking a stand on settlement issues. The Israeli government’s response underscores its disapproval of any foreign intervention or policy that it perceives as undermining its control over these territories.