Belgium backs Palestinian state recognition but warns against rewarding Hamas
Belgium has joined the growing number of nations recognising a Palestinian state, prime minister Bart De Wever announced at the United Nations in New York on Monday.
Speaking at a conference on the two-state solution, De Wever stressed that recognition must not be seen as “a reward for Hamas.” He cited renewed Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank, the ongoing military offensive in Gaza, and what he called an “indescribable humanitarian crisis” as reasons why peace now looks further away than ever.
While confirming Belgium’s “strong political and diplomatic signal”, the prime minister insisted full legal recognition would only follow once all hostages are released, Hamas is removed from power, and elections are held in Palestine. Diplomatic ties, such as embassies and international agreements, would depend on Hamas disarming. He also urged Arab countries to formally recognise Israel.
Belgium’s move aligns it with France, Britain, Canada and Australia, which have all recently pledged recognition while attaching conditions. Foreign minister Maxime Prevot described Brussels’ step as both “factual” and “political”.
Around 150 of the UN’s 193 member states now recognise Palestine, though with varying approaches. Israel and the United States have condemned the wave of announcements. US president Donald Trump is expected to address the issue at the General Assembly on Tuesday, followed by Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday.
Belgium's prime minister Bart De Wever speaks during a United Nations Summit on Palestinians during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York © ANGELA WEISS / AFP