Netherlands bans Israeli settlement imports from Sep 22

The Netherlands will ban the import, purchase, and sale of goods produced in illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories, with the measure taking effect on September 22. Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen announced the final approval of the decree to parliament on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.

The ban targets goods originating from settlements in the West Bank and the occupied Golan Heights, which the Dutch government considers unlawful under international law. Officials stated the policy is intended to prevent Dutch economic activities from contributing to the maintenance of these settlements. The restrictions will also apply to Dutch companies operating abroad and prohibit brokering services that facilitate such trade. Companies attempting to bypass the rules will face prosecution.

This national action follows the government's announcement of the planned ban in May and comes as efforts to implement a European Union-wide sanctions regime remain stalled due to insufficient support among member states. The Netherlands now joins Belgium, Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia in enacting unilateral restrictions. Belgium approved a similar import ban on July 18, and Ireland's...