On September 9, 2025, Belgium is poised to recognize Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly, as announced by Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot. This decision underscores Belgium’s stance on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine, which the Belgian government attributes to violations of international law by the Israeli government. Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Prévot conveyed that Belgium would implement a series of 12 sanctions against Israel, emphasizing the need for action to prompt a change in governmental behavior rather than targeting the Israeli populace.
These sanctions, deemed essential in amplifying pressure on the Israeli government, intend to address what Prévot describes as a humanitarian tragedy unfolding in Palestine. Among the measures is a prohibition on importing products from Israeli settlements, a reevaluation of public procurement policies involving Israeli firms, and restrictions on consular assistance for Belgians residing in these settlements. These actions are designed to ensure compliance with international and humanitarian law and are framed as necessary steps to hold the Israeli government accountable for its policies in the occupied territories.
Furthermore, Belgium’s policy will include judicial prosecutions, restrictions on overflights, and designating certain Israeli ministers—likely referring to far-right figures such as Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich—as “persona non grata.” This reflects a growing trend among various European nations to respond to perceived violations of international norms by Israeli officials. The measures signal a crucial shift in Belgium’s diplomatic posture, underscoring the government’s commitment to holding officials accountable while maintaining a delineated stance against antisemitism and the glorification of violent groups like Hamas.
The recognition of Palestine aligns with broader political initiatives, including a joint endeavor with France and Saudi Arabia aimed at preserving the prospects for a two-state solution. Prévot emphasized that Belgium’s stance is a significant political and diplomatic statement opposing Israel’s settlement policies and military actions in the region. He articulated a commitment to international efforts aimed at fostering peace and reducing hostilities, situating Belgium within a diplomatic strategy that requires collective action among EU members.
The Belgian government’s initiative also involves pushing for a suspension of the EU’s association agreement with Israel, including research collaborations and other forms of technical cooperation, framing these sanctions as necessary to hold Israel accountable for its actions. This highlights a larger conversation within the European Union regarding the nature of its relationship with Israel, as some member states reconsider their positions amidst ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises.
Prévot has indicated that the measures will be formalized by royal decree, dependent on both the release of hostages held by Hamas and the latter’s removal from governance in Palestine. This nuanced approach aims to balance the recognition of Palestinian statehood with ongoing concerns about security and the actions of militant groups, illustrating the complex political landscape that Belgium navigates in its foreign policy on this contentious issue.
