The country joins the New York Declaration, supports a two-state solution, aids Palestine’s reconstruction, and combats antisemitism with security and Jewish community involvement
Brussels
Belgium will officially recognise the Palestinian state during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session, Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot announced on Tuesday. The move comes alongside a series of sanctions on Israel and measures targeting Hamas supporters, he said.
In a statement on X, Prevot said Belgium’s actions are aimed at pressuring the Israeli government and Hamas, not the Israeli people. “This is about ensuring their government respects international and humanitarian law and trying to change the situation on the ground,” he added.
The minister detailed 12 national-level sanctions on Israel, including a ban on imports from settlements, review of public procurement with Israeli companies, restrictions on consular assistance for Belgians living in illegal settlements, possible judicial prosecutions, bans on overflights and transit, and declaring two Israeli ministers, violent settlers, and Hamas leaders as “persona non grata.” He did not disclose the names of the ministers.
Prevot also said Belgium would support European-level measures against Israel, including suspension of cooperation agreements, research programmes, and technical assistance, requiring qualified EU majority approval.
The country will join others that signed the New York Declaration, aiming for a two-state solution and recognising both Israel and Palestine. Belgium will also contribute to Palestine’s reconstruction and take action against antisemitism, mobilising security agencies and involving Jewish community representatives.
Belgium’s announcement follows similar moves by Australia, France, Canada, and the United Kingdom, which have committed to recognising Palestine. The decision is expected to add momentum to international efforts for a peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and advance the goal of a two-state solution.
