Belgium announced on Tuesday that it will formally recognize a Palestinian state and impose sanctions on Israel in response to the continuing war in Gaza.
The decision, unveiled by the Foreign Ministry, positions Belgium—home to the headquarters of both the European Union and NATO—at the forefront of European efforts to press for an immediate ceasefire and expanded humanitarian access to the enclave.
Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot, citing the “humanitarian tragedy in Gaza,” said the measures aim to increase pressure on both the Israeli government and Hamas.
“This is not about punishing the Israeli people, but about ensuring their government respects international and humanitarian law and takes action to change the situation on the ground,” Prévot wrote on X.
Key Measures Announced
Under the sanctions, Belgium will:
-
Ban imports of products originating from Jewish settlements in the West Bank.
-
Restrict consular assistance for Belgian nationals living in settlements considered illegal under international law.
-
Review procurement contracts involving Israeli companies.
-
Blacklist extremist figures, including two Israeli ministers, several violent settlers, and Hamas leaders.
Belgium will also push for the suspension of the EU’s trade agreement with Israel, intensifying calls for coordinated European action.
Wider European Context
The move comes as several European nations, including France, signal readiness to recognize Palestinian statehood at the upcoming UN General Assembly session—a step strongly opposed by Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has criticized such initiatives, warning that recognition would “only embolden Hamas.” Last month, he accused France and Australia of failing to address rising anti-Semitism in their own countries.
Meanwhile, Gaza’s humanitarian crisis continues to deepen. Local health authorities report more than 63,500 deaths since October 2023. The United Nations has warned of impending famine, while Israel has rejected these claims, insisting it is facilitating aid but refusing to allow distribution through what it alleges are Hamas-controlled channels.
.png)
The opinions posted here do not belong to 🔰www.indiansdaily.com. The author is solely responsible for the opinions.
As per the IT policy of the Central Government, insults against an individual, community, religion or country, defamatory and inflammatory remarks, obscene and vulgar language are punishable offenses. Legal action will be taken for such expressions of opinion.