A Jewish homeland – for right-wing Jews only?

Jigal Markuszower, head of the Jewish Communities in The Netherlands (NIK), has warned that the Netherlands is the first country to make life increasingly difficult for Jewish people following the country's recent sanctions. These sanctions prohibit the entry of Jewish-made goods originating from the West Bank, east Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights, even if only partially made or produced in the settlements.

Markuszower's comments came a week after the Dutch government implemented the ban, which has sparked a diplomatic storm and led to extensive luggage inspections at Schiphol airport. The President of NIK has acknowledged that not every passenger is checked, but still believes that singling out Israelis is indicative of a wider problem.

Markuszower expressed concern that Jewish kids are being prevented from celebrating events and displaying Israeli flags, and that the Netherlands is the first to take steps to complicate life for Jewish people and tourists from Israel. He also criticized the government for not being on the side of the Jewish community, with most not supporting their stance.

The NIK leader cited examples of radicalization in universities, including a case involving a Palestinian student from Gaza who was suspended from Maastricht University after posting an Instagram video about the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. Markuszower noted that such incidents and the celebratory attitude towards terrorism against Israel make life more challenging for Jewish students.

Markuszower drew parallels between the current Dutch government's policies and the 1930s, stating that it appears that small steps are being taken towards making life more difficult for the Jewish community. He emphasized that while the situation is not identical to Nazi Germany, the mirroring is undeniable.