Belgian Parliament holds emergency session on Gaza

BRUSSELS, Aug. 15 (YPA) The Belgian Federal Parliament held an emergency session Thursday evening to discuss the ongoing situation in Gaza and explore ways to reach a consensus within the government coalition on recognizing the State of Palestine and imposing sanctions on “Israel”.

The Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee dedicated the emergency session to discuss the ongoing Israeli war on Gaza, which has lasted for over 22 months, accompanied by a blockade and starvation that political and human rights groups have described as a “genocidal war.”

During the session, several lawmakers emphasized the need to make progress on recognizing Palestine before the next session of the United Nations General Assembly in September.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxim Prevot revealed that a government meeting will take place in the coming weeks to discuss Belgium’s stance on Gaza, the recognition of Palestine, and the possibility of imposing sanctions on Israel.

Several parties within the ruling coalition, including the Flemish Christian Democrats, the Engaged Party, and the Flemish Socialists, are pushing for immediate recognition of Palestine and the imposition of economic sanctions on “Israel.”

They are also advocating for escalatory measures, such as banning certain Israeli ministers from entering Belgian territory, arguing that mere condemnation statements are no longer sufficient.

These developments come as several European nations, notably France and the United Kingdom, prepare to move toward recognizing the State of Palestine during upcoming United Nations meetings.

@E.Y.M