Belgian Foreign Minister: What is happening in Gaza is a humanitarian catastrophe, and we will escalate our rhetoric toward Israel

Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévost described the situation in the Gaza Strip as a “major humanitarian catastrophe,” stressing that his country has decided to raise its voice and escalate its rhetoric against Israel.

Prévost told reporters on Sunday: “Even if I don’t have the authority to describe what is happening as genocide, it is up to the international community to decide whether this description applies to the reality. But I have made it clear: I don’t know what could be worse than this humanitarian blockade, forced displacement, repeated violations of international law, and the declared desire to completely wipe out Gaza.”

He added: “Some statements by Israeli officials speak of Palestinians as if they are not human beings, and this raises serious questions about how to deal with this catastrophe. The urgent priority now is the humanitarian response.”

He continued: “Belgium has decided to escalate its rhetoric because of the controversial Israeli actions that constitute a flagrant violation of international law and may amount to war crimes according to the International Criminal Court.”