Diplomatic Recognition and Conditions
Belgium has announced it will formally recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming UN General Assembly, joining a coalition of Western nations including Australia, Britain, Canada, and France in a significant diplomatic move against Israel’s policies. Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot stated recognition would be finalized via royal decree once Hamas releases all remaining hostages and ceases governance in Gaza. The decision aims to pressure Israel to end its military offensive, which has killed over 63,000 Palestinians and triggered a humanitarian catastrophe.
Sanctions on Israeli Government and Settlements
Alongside recognition, Belgium imposed 12 national sanctions targeting Israel’s government and settlement economy. These include a ban on imports from illegal West Bank settlements, restrictions on public procurement with Israeli companies, and persona non grata designations for far-right ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich. Prévot emphasized the measures respond to Israel’s "violation of international law" and aim to ensure accountability without punishing Israeli citizens.
International Context and Israeli Backlash
The move aligns with a French-Saudi diplomatic initiative advocating for a two-state solution. Israel condemned the recognition pledges as "reckless," with Ben-Gvir warning European nations would "discover terrorism on their own flesh." The U.S., under Trump, criticized similar moves but did not immediately comment on Belgium’s decision. Meanwhile, Israel reportedly considers annexing parts of the West Bank in retaliation, defying a 2024 International Court of Justice ruling that deemed its occupation illegal.
Humanitarian Crisis and Genocide Accusations
Prévot cited Gaza’s "humanitarian tragedy" as a core reason for Belgium’s actions. The International Association of Genocide Scholars recently affirmed Israel’s policies meet the legal definition of genocide, citing mass civilian deaths, famine, and systematic destruction. Over 348 Palestinians, including 127 children, have died from starvation due to Israeli aid restrictions. Belgium’s sanctions seek to address these violations, though the EU remains divided on broader economic pressure.
Regional Implications and Palestinian Sovereignty
Recognition efforts underscore growing global frustration with Israel’s expansionism. Palestine seeks statehood in the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem—territories increasingly fragmented by settlements and military control. While the U.S. insists statehood requires bilateral negotiations, Belgium’s move signals support for Palestinian self-determination amid what Prévot called Israel’s "expansionist ambitions".