BRUSSELS: Belgium has made a historic decision to formally recognize Palestine as an independent state, with the official announcement expected later this month during the United Nations General Assembly.
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot stated that the move comes in response to the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Israel’s repeated violations of international law.
Alongside recognition, Belgium will impose twelve sanctions on Israel. These include a complete ban on the import of products originating from illegal Israeli settlements, a review and suspension of certain government contracts with Israeli companies, and restrictions on Israeli flights and transit rights.
Minister Prévot emphasized that these measures are targeted at the Israeli government and institutions, not ordinary citizens, with the goal of pressuring Israel to respect human rights and international law.
Belgium’s decision follows similar announcements from France, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada, all of which are also expected to formally recognize Palestinian statehood at the UN this month.
This marks a significant shift in international diplomacy, as several Western nations align themselves with the growing global call for Palestinian recognition and accountability for Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Comments are closed.