Belgium Voices Unwavering Support for EU Sanctions on Israel

(MENAFN) Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever announced his country’s unwavering support for any European Union sanctions against Israel, following the escalating conflict in Gaza. De Wever argued that these measures are crucial to exert pressure on Tel Aviv.

Ahead of his upcoming trip to the UN General Assembly, the prime minister defended Belgium’s recent stance on Palestine, describing it as "the best possible compromise."

"We decided to put pressure on Israel, so we're going to support every sanction the European Union can propose, every sanction, without discussion. We've even adopted sanctions at the federal level," De Wever said, according to local media reports.

De Wever also addressed Belgium's role in international diplomacy, acknowledging the country’s limited influence on global geopolitical issues. "To say that Belgium is a great power that can really influence the geopolitical scene or resolve problems in the Middle East is lying to people," he remarked.

The Belgian leader reaffirmed his commitment to a two-state solution, asserting, "I believe that the Palestinians have the right to their own state and to live in peace and coexistence with Israel."

In parallel, France and several Western nations, including Belgium, the UK, Canada, and Australia, are set to support Palestinian statehood during the upcoming UN General Assembly sessions from Sept. 8-23. This move follows the recognition of Palestinian statehood by 147 countries already.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of nearly 65,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, as Israel’s military bombardment devastates Gaza. The attack has rendered the region uninhabitable, leading to widespread starvation and a surge in disease.

MENAFN17092025000045017169ID1110074573