Belgium’s Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot announced on X that the country plans to recognize a Palestinian state during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in late September. However, he clarified that formal recognition through royal decree will only occur once the last hostage has been released and Hamas no longer has control over Palestinian governance. In the same statement, Prevot revealed that Belgium will impose sanctions on Israel, including restrictions on trade and business ties, while also vowing to denounce antisemitism and the glorification of terrorism by Hamas supporters.

Prevot emphasized that Belgium’s actions are motivated by the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza and Israel’s alleged violations of international law. He argued that Belgium has a responsibility to act, citing international obligations to prevent the risk of genocide. Stressing that the move is not aimed at the Israeli people, he said the goal is to pressure Israel’s government and Hamas to comply with humanitarian and international standards, while seeking to influence the situation on the ground through diplomatic and economic measures.

Stay Awake. Keep Watch.

SOURCE: i24 News