israel

With Israel's October 27 election approaching, PM Netanyahu faces allegations he ignored Egyptian and UAE warnings before the October 7 attack, while his government moves to bar Arab parties from the ballot and downplays settler violence.

Israel revoked the diplomatic status of Dutch diplomats in Ramallah on Sept 27, retaliating against the Netherlands' ban on imports from Israeli settlements. The ban took effect Sept 22, but a legal challenge by Christians for Israel could overturn it. For expats, the main effect is political: the Dutch government is taking a strong stance on international law, which may affect diplomatic relations but not daily life directly.

As Israel's October 2026 elections approach, Prime Minister Netanyahu deflects blame for the October 7 attack and boasts about bombing Qatar. The anniversary and ongoing wars shape voter perceptions amid calls for an independent inquiry.

Will a Dutch court block the September 22 ban on settlement goods? Christians for Israel's trade arm says EU free-movement rules forbid it. Here's what shoppers and importers should know.

AvroTros has announced it will not participate in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest for a second year, citing Israel's involvement in the Gaza conflict. The EBU's rule changes on hosting are deemed insufficient by the broadcaster. Other Dutch public broadcasters may still step in to air the contest or field an entry.