Europe Tightens the Noose on Israel.. Ban on Products, Inspection of Travelers' Bags, and Warning of a Wider Wave

Tel Aviv - Afaq News - The newspaper 'Israel Hayom' revealed the expansion of European measures targeting trade with settlements in the West Bank, amid Israeli warnings that these measures could turn into a broader wave of economic and political restrictions.

According to the report, Spain, Ireland, and the Netherlands have already imposed restrictions on the import of products from the settlements, while Britain, France, and Canada have announced their intention to take similar steps. Belgium and Norway are also pushing for new legislation in this direction.

The Netherlands stands out in particular, as its ban came into effect last week, which not only applies to import and sale but also includes settlement products found in travelers' luggage. The newspaper reported that the Israeli Foreign Ministry warned Israelis traveling to the Netherlands of the possibility of their luggage undergoing lengthy and thorough inspections.

The newspaper indicates that Israeli concerns go beyond direct trade losses, as Tel Aviv fears that what it describes as a 'silent boycott' could lead European companies, banks, and insurance firms to avoid dealing with Israeli products or companies for fear of violating the restrictions.

At the European level, there is also a discussion about imposing broader restrictions, while other European countries currently oppose some of these steps, amid talks of waiting for the results of the Israeli elections before making additional decisions.

The most dangerous scenario addressed in the report is the suspension of the partnership agreement between Israel and the European Union; however, the newspaper clarified that this option is not currently practically on the table, despite the existence of supporting countries.

According to estimates conveyed by the report from the 'Mitvim' Institute, the direct impact on Israeli exports from the settlements may be relatively limited, but the greater risk lies in the indirect effects if European companies begin to distance themselves from dealing with Israeli goods or delay their shipments due to the difficulty in determining the source of the products.