Netherlands 'regrets' Israeli expulsion of Dutch officials over settlement trade ban
Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen on Wednesday dismissed Israel's decision to expel his officials from a Gaza support centre in retaliation for a ban on trade with illegal Israeli settlements. Mr Berendsen said he regretted Israel's move, which he linked to the country's upcoming elections . He added that the expulsion would not stop the Netherlands from moving ahead with a ban on trade…
Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen expressed regret over Israel's decision to expel his officials from a Gaza support centre, following the imposition of a trade ban with illegal Israeli settlements. Berendsen cited the upcoming Israeli elections as the reason for Israel's retaliation. The Dutch government remains committed to the 20-point peace plan and humanitarian aid for Gaza, despite the expulsion.
The Netherlands is the second country to ban trade with Israeli settlements, following Spain's lead last year. Other countries, such as Slovenia, Belgium, and Ireland, are also considering similar actions. Israel's actions, including the opening of bids for the controversial E1 project, aim to prevent the creation of a future Palestinian state.
The Dutch government remains steadfast in its support for EU-wide trade restrictions on settlement goods, despite some resistance from countries like Germany.
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