Travelers from Israel report luggage searches at Amsterdam airport as settlement goods ban begins

The Netherlands began enforcing a ban on goods from Israeli settlements on September 22. The measure covers products originating wholly or partly in settlements in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights.

It applies to commercial imports and to items travelers carry in their luggage, including gifts and souvenirs. Goods bought before the ban took effect cannot be brought into the country after that date.

Passengers arriving from Tel Aviv have reported extensive luggage checks at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport.

Dutch website Nieuwsrecht said travelers on an El Al flight were directed to have their bags screened and that officers appeared to be looking for products such as wine, dates and olives from the affected areas.

Authorities have not confirmed that those checks were conducted specifically to enforce the settlement goods ban. Dutch Customs says it may inspect travelers’ luggage, but that nationality, religion and appearance are not grounds for selecting a passenger.

Israel responded on Sunday by announcing that it would revoke the Israeli-issued diplomatic credentials of Dutch representatives working in Ramallah.