Key facts
- Belgium is considering recognizing Palestinian statehood.
- Hamas announced it would dissolve its governing body in Gaza.
- Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot made Hamas stepping down from Gaza governance a prerequisite for recognition.
- Several European countries have recognized Palestinian statehood in recent years.
- France, the UK, Canada, and Australia recognized Palestinian statehood in 2025.
- Spain, Ireland, and Norway recognized Palestinian statehood in 2024.
Belgium's Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot announced on Monday that he has instructed his Cabinet to begin the process of recognizing Palestinian statehood. This significant step is contingent on Hamas dissolving the body that has governed Gaza for the past two decades, a condition Prévot stated was necessary for Belgium to formally recognize Palestine.
Prévot indicated that while the decision might not be finalized by Friday's scheduled ministerial council, it would be addressed soon. The growing European support for Palestinian statehood recognition stems from the ongoing conflict in Gaza, initiated by Israel in response to the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths in Israel and the taking of 251 hostages. The health ministry in Gaza reported over 73,000 Palestinian casualties since the war began.
Relations between Israel and European nations have also been strained by increased Israeli settler activity in the West Bank, diplomatic disputes, and aggressive rhetoric from Israeli politicians. In 2025, France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia recognized Palestinian statehood, a move met with condemnation from the U.S. and Israel. Spain, Ireland, and Norway followed suit in 2024 as the death toll in Gaza mounted. While Hamas's withdrawal from Gaza's governance has been cautiously welcomed by the UN, questions regarding its disarmament and the practical impact of this announcement remain.