By Horn Africa News
BURSSELS – Belgium is preparing to take a historic step by officially recognizing the State of Palestine later this month, coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly in New York, according to a report by The Telegraph.
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot confirmed that the recognition will not be unconditional. He outlined a series of requirements directed at Hamas, including the immediate release of all hostages still being held in Gaza, the full disarmament of the group, and the transfer of authority over the Gaza Strip to the Palestinian Authority. These conditions, he emphasized, are essential for Belgium to move forward with recognition.
At the same time, Brussels is planning punitive measures against Israel. The Belgian government is preparing to impose targeted sanctions on members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right coalition. The sanctions are expected to focus on ministers accused of undermining peace efforts and fueling tensions in the occupied Palestinian territories.
The dual strategy underscores Belgium’s attempt to balance its position: offering symbolic and diplomatic support for Palestinian statehood while pressing for political and security concessions, and simultaneously holding Israel accountable for policies viewed as obstructing peace.
If carried out, Belgium would join a growing number of European nations moving toward Palestinian recognition, while also becoming one of the few to directly sanction Israeli officials over the ongoing conflict.
