After phone call, Herzog refutes Dutch PM’s characterization of their conversation

In a rare move for Israel’s titular head of state, President Isaac Herzog takes to X to dispute Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof’s accounting of their call earlier today.

Schoof says he told Herzog that if the European Union determines tomorrow that Israel is not in compliance with humanitarian agreements with the bloc, then the Netherlands will support the suspension of Israel’s participation in the EU Horizon research program.

“If that proves to be the case tomorrow in Brussels, the Netherlands will also press for further European measures, for example, in the realm of trade,” writes Schoof, adding that there may be Dutch measures as well.

“Sorry Prime Minister, with all due respect — this tweet does not reflect the spirit and details of the call,” responds Herzog to the post.

“Nor does it reflect my crystal clear position that it will be a HUGE mistake if EU takes such steps especially in light of Israel’s ongoing and upgraded humanitarian efforts,” he adds.

The normally genteel Herzog also notes that Schoof did not mention Israeli hostages in Gaza or call for their release.