Why it matters:
Belgium’s move adds momentum to growing international recognition of Palestinian statehood, challenging the Israeli regime’s continued occupation and increasing pressure on Western governments to take concrete measures.
The big picture:
Belgium joins more than a dozen Western countries, including France, Canada and the U.K., that have pledged to recognise Palestine during the September 9–23 UNGA session.
The Israeli regime has expressed concern over the wave of recognition pledges, warning it undermines negotiations and rewards Hamas.
The United States maintains that Palestinian statehood can only emerge from direct talks with the Israeli regime — a stance rejected by many Palestinians and human rights groups as unworkable under occupation.
What they’re saying:
Maxime Prévot: “Palestine will be recognised by Belgium at the UN session! And firm sanctions are being imposed against the Israeli government.”
Belgian Foreign Ministry: The sanctions package includes banning imports from Israeli settlements, reviewing procurement contracts with Israeli firms, and declaring Hamas leaders persona non grata.
Key points:
- Sanctions on settlement products align with EU policy that considers settlements illegal under international law.
- The decision reflects growing frustration in Europe over the Israeli regime’s genocide in Gaza and the West Bank.
Go deeper:
Palestinians have long sought statehood in the occupied West Bank and Gaza, with Jerusalem as their capital.
More than 140 countries worldwide already recognise Palestine, though most Western powers have withheld recognition until now.
Mojtaba Darabi - Mahboubeh Habibi
