Belgium has announced its decision to recognize Palestinian statehood and impose sanctions on Israel due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The government’s move is aimed at increasing pressure on the Israeli government and Hamas to reach a ceasefire and allow more humanitarian aid into the besieged Palestinian enclave.
The sanctions include a ban on imports of products from Jewish settlements in the West Bank, which are considered illegal under international law. Additionally, Belgium will restrict consular assistance for its nationals living in these settlements. The government will also review procurement involving Israeli companies and blacklist several Israeli ministers, settlers, and Hamas leaders.
According to Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot, the measures are intended to ensure that the Israeli government respects international and humanitarian law. Prevot emphasized that the sanctions are not meant to punish the Israeli people, but rather to prompt their government to take action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The situation in Gaza has been described as a “humanitarian tragedy,” with over 63,500 people killed since October 2023. The United Nations has warned of a potential famine in the region, which Israel has rejected. Despite pledges to allow aid delivery, Israel has refused to use distribution points it claims are controlled by Hamas.
Belgium’s decision comes as several countries, including France, prepare to recognize Palestine at the UN General Assembly later this month. This move is expected to draw strong criticism from Israel, which has argued that recognition of Palestine would embolden Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has previously accused countries considering recognition of Palestine of failing to tackle antisemitism.
The recognition of Palestinian statehood and imposition of sanctions on Israel mark a significant shift in Belgium’s stance on the conflict. The country, which hosts the headquarters of the EU and NATO, will also push for the suspension of the EU’s trade agreement with Israel. As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, Belgium’s decision is likely to increase pressure on Israel to reach a ceasefire and allow more humanitarian aid into the region.