Netherlands Bans Israeli Ministers Ben-Gvir, Smotrich Over Gaza Violence

The Dutch government has imposed an entry ban on Israeli far-right ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, declaring them persona non grata due to their repeated incitement of settler violence against Palestinians, advocacy for illegal settlement expansions, and calls for ethnic cleansing in the Gaza Strip. Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp condemned their actions as undermining peace and violating international law, and announced that the Israeli ambassador would be summoned for urgent talks. In addition to the bans, the Netherlands is considering supporting EU proposals to suspend Israel’s access to research funding and potentially call for the suspension of the European trade agreement with Israel, alongside arms export restrictions. The Dutch government also pledged 4.5 million euros for humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza, emphasizing the need for safe and unrestricted humanitarian access. In response, Ben-Gvir asserted that despite the ban, he would continue to support Israeli soldiers and oppose Hamas, while Smotrich criticized European nations for misunderstanding Israel's security concerns. These measures reflect growing international pressure on Israel amid the ongoing crisis in Gaza.