Geert Wilders meets Israeli officials: strengthening ties with Israel during Jerusalem visit

Wilders, a member of the Dutch ruling coalition and leader of the Party for Freedom, strongly supports Israel and has long advocated for the country’s interests. Wilders toured Samaria and met with Israeli leaders to discuss security and Middle East challenges. 

In a post on X/Twitter, Wilders announced plans to visit Samaria and meet with Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Herzog during his trip. On Sunday, shortly after his arrival, Wilders met with Science and Technology Minister Gila Gamliel in Tel Aviv.

The following day in Jerusalem, he had discussions with Defense Minister Israel Katz, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, and Energy Minister Eli Cohen. Katz thanked Wilders for his unwavering support of Israel, highlighting his friendship with the country. Wilders praised Israel's military successes and noted that Europe is increasingly understanding the challenges Israel faces.

They also talked about efforts to bring back hostages kidnapped by Hamas, addressing threats from Iran, ongoing military operations on the Israel-Syria border, and the ceasefire in Lebanon. Later, Wilders visited Samaria, where he toured the region with Yossi Dagan, the head of the Samaria Regional Council. Dagan highlighted the strategic importance of Samaria, particularly due to its proximity to major Israeli cities.

Wilders expressed amazement at Israel's small size and the significance of the region for national security. He also shared his personal connection to the country, having lived in Israel in the 1980s, and said he was "proud and privileged" to return after more than seven years. Wilders is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog later in the day.