Netherlands to Ban Imports from Israeli Settlements

The Dutch government announced that, effective 22 September 2026, it will prohibit the import, purchase and sale of goods originating from Israeli settlements deemed illegal under international law in the occupied Palestinian territories. Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen told parliament that the measure also bans Dutch companies abroad from facilitating such trade and forbids any attempts to evade the ban.

The decision aligns the Netherlands with a growing group of EU states—including Belgium, Ireland and Spain—that have already adopted similar unilateral restrictions, while a Europe‑wide ban remains stalled. The Dutch Council of State raised no objection but warned of enforcement challenges. According to the NGO Global Echo, the Netherlands handles about a third of agricultural exports from the settlements sent to the EU.

Palestinian political group Fatah welcomed the moves, calling them a responsible step consistent with international law and UN advisory opinions. The ban has drawn criticism from Dutch far‑right politician Geert Wilders, who described the policy as shameful.