Netherlands Summons Israeli Envoy, Imposes Travel Ban on Two Ministers Over Gaza Remarks

The Netherlands has summoned the Israeli ambassador and imposed a travel ban on two far-right Israeli ministers in response to their inflammatory remarks regarding Palestinians and the ongoing war in Gaza. The Dutch government labeled the situation in Gaza as “unbearable and indefensible,” expressing deep concern over the conduct and rhetoric of Israeli officials.

The ministers in question, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, have been accused of inciting violence and promoting extremist views, including calls for the displacement of Palestinians. In response, the Dutch Foreign Ministry has declared them persona non grata, barring their entry into the Netherlands. The move comes amid rising global condemnation of Israel’s military actions and treatment of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

This decision aligns the Netherlands with a growing list of countries — including the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Norway — that have imposed similar sanctions on the two Israeli ministers.

In addition to the travel bans, Dutch authorities have voiced support for suspending Israeli access to the EU’s Horizon research programme, and hinted at broader trade sanctions if humanitarian obligations in Gaza are violated.

The Dutch government stressed the need for accountability and adherence to international humanitarian law, calling on Israel to moderate its policies and rhetoric. The escalation in diplomatic pressure reflects mounting frustration across Europe with Israel’s far-right leadership and its handling of the Gaza conflict. The situation continues to test Israel’s international standing amid growing calls for restraint and human rights protection.