In a move that heightens diplomatic tensions, Israel has revoked the diplomatic credentials of Dutch officials operating in the occupied West Bank. This action comes in response to the Netherlands’ recent decision to restrict the import of goods produced in Israeli settlements, a policy that took effect on September 22.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar announced that the Dutch Embassy had been notified that its diplomats working out of Ramallah would have seven days to surrender their Israeli-issued diplomatic documents. Sa’ar indicated that Dutch officials could continue their activities in the West Bank with authorization from the Palestinian Authority.
The Israeli response underscores its strong opposition to international measures targeting its settlements, which are situated in territories that have been a focal point of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel has consistently criticized countries that impose restrictions or take other actions concerning this issue.
The latest development marks a significant point of contention between Israel and the Netherlands and adds to the growing diplomatic strain between Israel and several European nations over settlement policies and the broader situation in the Palestinian territories.