Belgium Demands EU Sanctions on Israeli Settlers After Diplomat Attack

Belgium's Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot strongly condemned an attack by Israelis on foreign diplomats and Palestinians near the village of Taybeh, west of Ramallah, on October 17. Prévot called for the perpetrators to be held accountable and stated that Brussels will continue to push for European Union sanctions against those involved in the violence and their supporters. The Belgian minister reported that the attack targeted the Belgian consul general, French and Polish diplomats, representatives of the Catholic Church, and Palestinians. A French mayor within the delegation was assaulted, and the Belgian consulate's vehicle sustained damage. Prévot assured that the Belgian diplomats were safe and highlighted that Palestinians face such violence daily, emphasizing that olive harvesting, journalistic work, or diplomatic duties should not put individuals at risk of attack. He urged Israeli authorities to ensure the safety of Palestinians, diplomats, and journalists, stating that the impunity of violent settlers must end. Prévot linked the attacks to Israeli settlement policy, condemning settlement expansion and forced eviction attempts against Palestinians.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar condemned the attack and confirmed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is in contact with the ambassadors of the affected nations. He stated that this communication would assist the police in identifying and apprehending the attackers. Sa'ar expressed regret that the diplomats' visit had not been coordinated in advance with the IDF, suggesting such coordination could have enhanced their security.