Netherlands bans Israeli far-right ministers from entering

The Dutch government has barred two of Israel’s far-right ministers from entering the country, citing their role in inciting violence and promoting ethnic cleansing.

“Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich are no longer welcome here,” Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp announced late on Monday. “They will be registered as persona non grata in the Schengen system.”

Veldkamp accused the two ministers of openly encouraging attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinians, pushing for the expansion of illegal settlements, and advocating the forced removal of Gaza’s population.

“These actions and statements are beyond justification,” he said. “The cabinet has decided to take this step because their conduct undermines the prospects for peace and violates the principles of international law.”

The foreign minister also said Israel’s ambassador to the Netherlands would be summoned for urgent talks.

“We will ask him to urge Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government to reconsider its current course,” Veldkamp added. “The situation as it stands is intolerable and morally bankrupt.”