Belgium to Recognize State of Palestine at UN Assembly

Belgium has announced its intention to recognize the State of Palestine during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session, set to begin on September 9, 2025. This decision aligns Belgium with other nations, including France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, which have recently pledged similar recognitions.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot stated that the recognition aims to support a two-state solution and respond to Israel's violations of international law. However, the formalization of this recognition is contingent upon two conditions: the release of all Israeli hostages held in Gaza and the removal of Hamas from any role in Palestinian governance.

In addition to recognizing Palestinian statehood, Belgium plans to impose 12 sanctions on Israel. These measures include banning imports from Israeli settlements in the West Bank, reviewing public procurement policies involving Israeli companies, and declaring certain Israeli ministers and Hamas leaders as persona non grata. These actions are intended to pressure the Israeli government to adhere to international law and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The announcement has elicited criticism from Israeli officials. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labeled Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever a "weak leader," accusing him of appeasing Islamic terrorism. Netanyahu argued that recognizing a Palestinian state rewards Hamas for its attacks on Israel, particularly referencing the October 7, 2023, incident that escalated the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

This development signifies a notable shift in Belgium's foreign policy and contributes to the broader international discourse on Palestinian statehood and Middle East diplomacy.