Foreign minister wants Belgium to offer support to Gulf states
Belgian Foreign minister Maxime Prévot warned on Sunday that failing to respond to a request for defensive assistance from Gulf states would send "a bad political signal". Speaking on VTM Nieuws, Prévot said the government should reconsider the issue at its next meeting on Friday.
The United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Oman have asked Belgium for defensive support against missile and drone attacks from Iran. The federal government discussed the request on Friday but has so far limited its response to an exploratory diplomatic review. Coalition parties Vooruit and CD&V oppose any involvement, arguing Belgium should not become entangled in the conflict in the Middle East.
Prévot expressed regret over that position. "Of course, nobody wants to be dragged into this war. But our country’s credibility and reliability require much more than just an increase in our defence budget," he said.
"If we still wish to exert influence on the international stage, we must be prepared to take courageous decisions"
"It also means being able to respond positively to allies who ask for help." He added that the assistance would not necessarily have to be military. Belgium could also provide civil protection, medical aid or logistical support.
International influence
Prévot warned that Belgium could struggle to seek solidarity from partners in future if it does not offer support now. He also stressed the importance of maintaining international influence, saying: "If we still wish to exert influence on the international stage, we must be prepared to take courageous decisions."
Prévot further noted the strategic importance of supporting the Gulf states in terms of energy security. The ongoing conflict has put pressure on shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global crude oil transport, which has effectively been closed.
In a response to the interview on Instagram, CD&V leader Sammy Mahdi stood by his position. “Providing military support there only increases the risk of attacks here," Mahdi wrote. "CD&V’s response is and remains unchanged: no military support for a war that is not ours."
© BELGA PHOTO JAMES ARTHUR GEKIERE
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