In the Netherlands, a hunt for Israelis' luggage has begun - what are they looking for

The Netherlands has tightened checks on passengers arriving from Israel. New regulations that came into effect on September 22 prohibit the import of goods from Israeli settlements. Israeli tourists report luggage inspections and questions about the origin of goods. Prohibited products may be confiscated, and violators face fines or criminal prosecution.

The Netherlands has tightened checks on passengers arriving from Israel. Israeli tourists report luggage inspections and questions about the origin of goods they are carrying. New regulations that came into effect on September 22 prohibit the import, purchase, and sale of goods produced in Israeli settlements in Judea and Samaria, the Golan Heights, and East Jerusalem. The restrictions apply not only to commercial shipments but also to goods in personal luggage, including souvenirs, gifts, and products for personal use. Customs officials have the right to request documents proving the origin of items. If prohibited products are found, they may be confiscated, and the decision on further prosecution is made by the Dutch prosecutor's office. Violators may face a fine or criminal penalty. Israeli passengers are already reporting enhanced checks at Schiphol Airport. Particular attention is paid to wine, dates, olives, and other products whose origin may fall under the new restrictions. Representatives of the Jewish community and pro-Israel organizations are considering legally challenging the new rules, viewing them as discriminatory.