
Belgium has said it will recognize the independence of the Belgian state at the UN General Assembly meeting this month. The news was announced by Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot, who announced that he will join the decision of the United Kingdom, France, Canada and Australia to recognize the state of Palestine.
Belgium has also warned of strong sanctions against Israel, including hitting the domestic economy by banning the import of products to the West Bank and initiating criminal prosecution of Israeli officials who many countries accuse of war crimes and crimes against humanity against the residents of the Gaza Strip and Palestine.
Following the statements of the United Kingdom and France a few days ago about recognizing Palestine, the Israeli Foreign Ministry spoke out against it, saying:
"The change in the British government's position at this time, following French action and domestic political pressures, constitutes a reward for Hamas and undermines efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and a framework for the release of hostages."
The UN General Assembly session in New York will begin on September 9. Ireland, Spain and Norway officially recognized the Palestinian state last year.
Of the 193 member states of the United Nations, 147 have already recognized Palestine as a state as of March 2025.