Belgium has welcomed a new ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, calling it a significant step toward reducing violence in the region. However, the country made it clear that sanctions on Israel will remain in place for now. The announcement follows remarks from Belgium’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Maxime Prevot, who highlighted the importance of humanitarian aid access and maintaining pressure on Israel.
The ceasefire is part of an international effort to bring calm to Gaza, where months of conflict have caused severe damage and widespread suffering. Belgium emphasized that while the temporary peace is important, it is still “too early” to lift any restrictions on Israel. US President Donald Trump also announced that Israel and Hamas had signed off on the first phase of a US-proposed Gaza deal, adding global support to the agreement.
Belgium Stresses Humanitarian Support
Belgium’s main focus is making sure humanitarian aid can reach people in Gaza. The region has been heavily affected by the conflict, leaving thousands of families without enough food, clean water, or medical care. Maxime Prevot noted that Belgium has been working to prevent any goods that could be used for military purposes from reaching Israel. Recent steps have closed loopholes that allowed certain weapons and dual-use goods to transit into Israel. Officials said that now, these goods can no longer be sent, helping to enforce the ongoing sanctions.
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Belgium has also praised the efforts of several countries that have worked behind the scenes to make the ceasefire possible. Countries such as Qatar, Egypt, the United States, and Türkiye played a key role in mediating the deal, which is now officially in effect.
Ceasefire Details and International Role
The ceasefire follows a 20-point plan aimed at bringing calm to Gaza. The plan includes several important steps:
- Releasing all Israeli captives in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
- Establishing a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
- Disarming Hamas to prevent further attacks.
- Rebuilding Gaza, which has faced severe destruction during the conflict.
Belgium, through Maxime Prevot, has described the ceasefire as a crucial step for lifting the aid blockade and allowing relief organizations to help people in need. At the same time, officials stressed that sanctions will remain until more conditions are met. Belgium also clarified its position on recognizing Palestine. The country said it will only consider recognition depending on Hamas’s role in the future governance of the region and the release of hostages. These conditions are seen as essential to ensuring a fair and peaceful process.
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Since October 2023, Israeli military actions have resulted in a devastating loss of life in Gaza. Thousands of civilians, including women and children, have died, and much of the area has become uninhabitable. The destruction has caused severe food shortages, disease outbreaks, and major health emergencies.
Belgium’s response shows a balance between welcoming steps toward peace and maintaining pressure to ensure accountability. Officials continue to encourage all parties to seize the opportunity provided by the ceasefire and work toward providing aid and safety for those affected.
International Praise and Support
Belgium has expressed readiness to support the implementation of the ceasefire plan. By working with other countries and international organizations, the goal is to ensure the plan’s measures are fully carried out. Maxime Prevot highlighted the importance of continuous efforts to monitor the situation and make sure humanitarian aid reaches people in urgent need. The ceasefire is being seen as a crucial window to stabilize the region and address the immediate emergency in Gaza.
The international community is watching closely as the first phase of the ceasefire plan unfolds. Belgium’s stance reflects a careful approach, balancing humanitarian concern with ongoing diplomatic and economic measures to maintain peace and prevent further escalation.