Dutch Customs Seize Goods Brought by Travelers From Israeli Communities in Judea and Samaria

Dutch customs has begun inspecting travelers arriving from Israel who are carrying products made in Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria. This was reported on Sunday by Channel 14.

It should be noted that on September 22, a new ban on bringing products originating in Israeli communities in Judea and Samaria into the Netherlands took effect. The rules apply not only to commercial imports, but also to products that travelers bring with them personally.

As a result, a product found inside a suitcase is not exempt simply because it is intended for personal use. The ban also applies to souvenirs, gifts, and products purchased for personal use. According to Dutch customs, it applies to products manufactured or obtained fully or partially in any community included in the definition, rather than to all products originating in Israel.

In addition, the ban applies even if the traveler arrives in the Netherlands through another European Union country. According to the instructions, customs may confiscate the items and file a report, and the matter may then be transferred to prosecutorial authorities, since violating the ban could lead to criminal proceedings. In cases of intentional violations, the punishment can include a fine and even up to six years in prison.

Israelis who arrived in the Netherlands told Ynet that they were indeed detained for baggage inspections by local customs. The items in their suitcases were checked, and they were asked whether the products had been made in communities in Judea and Samaria or in East Jerusalem.