Belgium plans to recognise Palestinian statehood, impose sanctions on Israel

Belgium plans to recognise Palestinian statehood, impose sanctions on Israel
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As reported by Al Jazeera, Belgium will formally recognize the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly. This decision, announced by Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot, is a direct response to the “humanitarian tragedy unfolding in Palestine, particularly in Gaza.”

In addition to the recognition, Belgium has also announced 12 “firm sanctions” against Israel. These sanctions include a ban on products from illegal Israeli settlements and a review of public procurement policies with Israeli companies.

The recognition is conditional on the release of all captives from Gaza and the removal of Hamas from any governing role in Palestine. This conditional approach has drawn criticism from some, who believe it diminishes the significance of the recognition.

While the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has welcomed the announcement, the Israeli government has not yet issued an official comment. The article also notes that Belgium is part of a growing trend among European nations, with France, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom also considering similar conditional recognition of Palestine.