Netherlands voices concern over Israel's death penalty bill, condemns new settlements
Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen voiced concern over Israel's death penalty bill for Palestinians and condemned the approval of 34 new settlements in the occupied West Bank, following a phone call with his Israeli counterpart. "We are firmly opposed to any form of annexation," Berendsen said.
Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen voiced concern over Israel's death penalty bill for Palestinians and condemned the approval of new settlements in the occupied West Bank, following a phone call with his Israeli counterpart on Thursday. "The Netherlands is concerned about the ISR (Israel) death penalty bill, detention circumstances of children, and condemns the approval of 34 new settlements in the occupied West Bank," Berendsen wrote on X.
Opposition to annexation
His statement came after a phone call with his Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar. "We are firmly opposed to any form of annexation. I called for more action to address these issues," Berendsen said.
Diplomatic solutions
He also welcomed the direct talks between Israel and Lebanon and called for an end to violence. "A diplomatic solution with regards to Iran is crucial, also to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz," Berendsen added.
Regional context
The death penalty bill, passed by the Knesset on March 30, allows capital punishment for Palestinians convicted of lethal attacks against Israelis. The law has drawn international condemnation, with the EU calling it a "clear step backwards" on human rights. Settlement expansion in the West Bank continues despite international law declaring them illegal.
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