Federal and Flemish governments reach agreement on Gaza: “Belgium chooses diplomacy, humanitarian aid and decisive action”

The federal and Flemish governments have reached a joint agreement on how to respond to the ongoing humanitarian and political crisis in Gaza. MP Kathleen Depoorter calls the agreement “a crucial lever to help end the atrocities in Gaza by stepping up political and diplomatic pressure.”

Since the start of the conflict, the N-VA has consistently emphasised the importance of a two-state solution as the only sustainable path out of the violence. The party condemns both the terrorist attacks by Hamas on October 7 and Israel’s disproportionate military response, which has inflicted heavy suffering on Gaza’s civilian population.

“The situation is dire. We continue to prioritise humanitarian aid for those on the ground. Food, water, medicine, and medical expertise are urgently needed. Flanders will provide an additional grant to the World Food Programme. In addition, Belgium will respond to the WHO’s call to take in sick and vulnerable children,” said Depoorter.

Measures that make a real difference

During the emergency committee session on 14 August, Depoorter advocated for a set of concrete measures, including entry bans for extremist Israeli ministers and Hamas leaders, a ban on imports from illegal Israeli settlements, and sanctions targeting extremist settlers.

The N-VA also supported the signing of the New York Declaration – which lays out a roadmap towards peace and recognition of Palestine – as well as the suspension of parts of the EU’s association agreement with Israel.

“This agreement proves that the government is capable of rising above party interests and acting in the public interest, with a real commitment to alleviating human suffering,” Depoorter stated. “We’re not opting for symbolic gestures—we’re choosing measures that make a tangible difference.”

Belgium will officially recognise the State of Palestine by the end of September, provided that conditions such as the release of hostages and the dismantling of Hamas are met. At the same time, work is underway on an internationally supported plan for reconstruction and the establishment of democratic Palestinian governance.

Sanctions against Iran also on the table

Belgium will also press within the EU for the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to be added to the EU’s list of terrorist organisations, for new sanctions against Iran, and for the abolition of the distinction between the political and military wings of Hezbollah.

“If we truly want lasting peace in the Middle East, we must be willing to call out and address Iran’s destabilising role,” Depoorter concluded.