Netherlands Bans Israeli Ministers Over Gaza Ethnic Cleansing Allegations

The Dutch government has imposed travel bans on two far-right Israeli ministers, Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, citing their incitement to violence against Palestinians and support for settlement expansion and ethnic cleansing in Gaza. This decision, confirmed by Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp, comes amid escalating violence in Gaza and growing domestic and international pressure, with the Netherlands also committing €4.5 million in humanitarian aid to Gaza. The Netherlands plans to summon the Israeli ambassador to demand urgent measures to improve the humanitarian situation and is pushing for further EU sanctions, including suspending trade provisions and limiting Israel's participation in EU research funding programs. Ben Gvir and Smotrich have responded defiantly, accusing European leaders of hypocrisy and antisemitism, while Dutch right-wing politician Geert Wilders expressed strong support for Israel. Similar sanctions have been imposed by other Western countries, reflecting a broader diplomatic backlash against Israel's policies under Prime Minister Netanyahu's coalition. The Netherlands' actions symbolize a significant shift in European diplomatic pressure over Israel's conduct in Gaza, amid increasing concerns about human rights violations.