Belgium is contemplating the recognition of the state of Palestine, as stated by Belgian Minister of Development Cooperation and Major Cities, Caroline Janez.
In an interview with Al Jazeera, Janez emphasized the importance of resolving the violence through negotiations, asserting that both Palestinians and Israelis have the right to live in peace and security.
She underscored the necessity of recognizing the state of Palestine alongside Israel for a sustainable long-term solution.
Belgian Minister mentioned that Belgium is not alone in considering this move, as several European member states, including larger ones like Spain, are contemplating similar actions.
Additionally, the Belgian minister expressed her country’s commitment to addressing impunity for crimes against people.
To support this effort, Belgium plans to allocate an additional €5 million ($5.3 million) to the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The funds are intended to facilitate independent research into the events occurring in Gaza.
Janez stressed the importance of investigating allegations of “atrocities” committed by the Israeli defense forces or Hamas in Gaza, emphasizing the need for the international prosecutor of the ICC to carry out the investigation.
Janez statement indicates that several European countries are unhappy with the merciless killings of civilians including women and children in Israeli bombing on the Gaza Strip.
The context of these statements is against the backdrop of continuous air and ground attacks by Israel on the besieged Palestinian enclave, following a surprise cross-border attack by Hamas on October 7.
The conflict has resulted in a significant number of casualties, with over 10,569 Palestinians, including 4,324 children and 2,823 women, reported killed, while the Israeli death toll is nearly 1,600.
