Netherlands summons Israeli ambassador over diplomats’ status — Anadolu Agency

Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen summoned the Israeli ambassador over the decision to revoke the diplomatic status of several staff members of the Dutch mission in Ramallah in the occupied West Bank. The minister said this on September 29 in The Hague during a joint press conference with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, Anadolu Agency reports, citing broadcaster NOS.

Seven days to leave

According to NOS, the staff members of the Dutch diplomatic mission affected by the decision were ordered to leave Israel within seven days. Berendsen called the move “unnecessary” and said he wanted to receive an explanation from Israeli Ambassador Zvi Aviner Vapni about the details and consequences of the decision.

The Israeli diplomat is expected to arrive at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday.

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Netherlands’ measures

Israel’s decision was made after the Netherlands introduced measures against Israel. These include a ban on imports of goods originating from illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank and the Golan Heights.

According to NOS, Berendsen had already summoned the Israeli ambassador in May. At that time, the reason was the treatment of activists aboard a flotilla heading to Gaza that was intercepted by Israel. The Netherlands described this treatment as humiliating.