Israel Bars Dutch Diplomats from Gaza Support Center Amid Wider European Tensions

Israel has barred Dutch diplomats from accessing the International Gaza Support Center (IGSC), a US led facility in Kiryat Gat established as part of a peace plan to monitor the ceasefire in Gaza and facilitate humanitarian aid. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar announced the measure on social media, stating that those who turn against Israel will find no footing in the region. The decision follows a Dutch ban on imports from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, which is set to take effect on September 22. While Minister Sa’ar initially suggested Dutch representatives were ordered to leave Israel within a week, Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen stated that he understands no one is required to leave the country, though he expressed regret over the loss of access to the center.

The IGSC, formerly the Civil Military Coordination Center, was created in October to oversee the ceasefire and track developments in Gaza in real time. However, the center has faced criticism regarding its effectiveness. Reports indicate that some European nations previously considered withdrawing their personnel because the initiative failed to increase the flow of aid to the Gaza Strip, where the UN warns that 1.4 million people face severe food insecurity. One diplomat described the center as a disaster, while another called it rudderless.

This action against the Netherlands appears to be part of a broader trend. Spanish diplomats were reportedly barred from the center in April. Additionally, reports indicate that the Israeli government has discussed the potential expulsion of British and other European officials from the facility following increased criticism of the Netanyahu government.