The Netherlands Criminalizes Purchase of West Bank Settlement Goods as European Restrictions Expand
By The Media Line staff
The Netherlands has made purchasing goods produced in Israeli settlements in the West Bank a criminal offense, joining several other European countries that have imposed restrictions on trade with the settlements.
The Dutch measure, decided in July, took effect September 22. Violations can carry penalties of up to six years in prison, community service or a fifth-category fine, currently set at up to €103,000.
Among European Union countries, Ireland, Belgium and Spain have also imposed restrictions on trade with Israeli settlements. Those countries, along with the Netherlands, recognize Palestine as a country.
Calls have increased for the 27-member EU to adopt bloc-wide restrictions over Israel’s military operations in Gaza and increased violence in the West Bank.
Norway is separately considering legislation that would trade with businesses operating in Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem a crime that can carry a jail sentence.
Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said he expects Norway’s parliament, the Stortinget, to vote on and approve the proposal. A public consultation on the legislation is scheduled to end September 19, 2026.
Under the proposal, Norwegian individuals and companies would be barred from importing or exporting goods produced in Israeli settlements, including wine and agricultural products. Restrictions would also extend to real estate transactions and infrastructure and construction services connected to the areas.
Intentional violations could carry fines or prison sentences of up to three years, while negligent violations could result in up to six months in prison. The rules would apply to Norwegian citizens and companies.
European boycotts targeting the West Bank will also be a focus of [https://an%20upcoming%20event%20hosted%20by%20the%20international%20christian%20embassy%20jerusalem./]an upcoming event hosted by the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem. Alongside its celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles, participants will tour the West Bank, while the organization plans to challenge boycotts through public advocacy and legal avenues.
ICEJ Senior Vice President and Spokesman David Parsons said the organization must balance its opposition to the measures with the legal obligations facing supporters.
“There’s a sort of tension here that we don’t want to encourage people to defy the criminal laws of their country,” Parsons said, “but we will encourage Christians to support these communities as best they can.”
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