Belgium will formally recognize an independent Palestinian state at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session later this month, Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot announced on Sunday.
In a statement posted on his official X account, Prévot also confirmed that Belgium will impose what he described as “tough sanctions” on the Israeli government, while stressing that any form of antisemitism or support for terrorism by Hamas sympathizers would be strongly condemned.
“Belgium had to take decisive steps to increase pressure on both the Israeli government and Hamas terrorists, given the deteriorating situation in the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip,” he said.
Prévot described conditions in Gaza as “a humanitarian tragedy,” accusing Israel of committing acts of violence in violation of international law. He emphasized that the measures are aimed at compelling Israel to respect international and humanitarian law, not at punishing the Israeli people.
“It’s about ensuring that their government takes the necessary measures to improve the situation on the ground,” he added.
Belgium’s decision comes amid a broader international push toward Palestinian recognition. Several countries — including Australia, Canada, France, Malta, and Portugal — have already declared their intention to recognize Palestinian statehood at the UNGA this month. The United Kingdom has indicated it could follow suit if Israel fails to meet certain conditions.
France recently became the first G7 nation to recognize a Palestinian state, a move welcomed by pro-Palestinian advocates but harshly criticized by Israel, which argues that such steps “reward terrorism.”
The announcement comes as Israel continues its military operations in Gaza, fueling widespread international concern and intensifying calls for a political solution to the conflict.
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