Brussels, 26 June 2023 (TDI): Belgium has expressed deep concern over the recent escalation of violence in the occupied Palestinian territory, resulting in many casualties among Palestinians and Israelis.
Belgium firmly condemns all acts of violence that contribute to this cycle of bloodshed and emphasizes the need for immediate action to protect civilians.
The continued cycle of violence and loss of life in the oPt’s is extremely worrying. Israel has the obligation to ensure the protection of civilians in the occupied territory. Unilateral actions fueling tensions must stop. This underlines the need to restore a political horizon. https://t.co/bmj2eIxwmt pic.twitter.com/yMKqUTE4iQ
— 🇧🇪 Belgium MFA (@BelgiumMFA) June 26, 2023
In light of the alarming situation, Belgium stresses that Israel has a fundamental obligation to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians residing in the occupied territory. Belgium strongly denounces any unilateral actions that further escalate tensions and exacerbate the violence.
It also underscores the imperative of restoring a political horizon, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and negotiations to pave the way for a peaceful resolution.
Recent incidents have highlighted the severity of the situation. Belgium condemns the attack carried out by two Palestinians near the settlement of Eli on June 20, resulting in the tragic deaths of four Israelis and numerous injuries.
Similarly, Belgium condemns attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinian civilians in the occupied West Bank, which have led to the loss of Palestinian lives, injuries, and significant destruction of Palestinian property.
Therefore, it reiterates that Israel must fulfill its responsibility to protect civilians in the occupied territory.
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Additionally, Belgium expresses concern over Israel’s decision to advance the planning of approximately 1,000 housing units in the settlement of Eli as a response to the aforementioned attack and the advancement of planning for over 4,500 settlement units in the occupied West Bank.
Furthermore, Belgium urges Israel to refrain from implementing these measures, as they further escalate tensions and hinder the prospects for peace.
In light of the escalating violence and its devastating consequences, Belgium calls upon all parties involved to take immediate steps to break the deadly cycle of violence. It emphasizes the importance of ceasing unilateral actions that contribute to tension and further loss of life.
As per the official statement, accountability for all crimes committed must be ensured, and the perpetrators must be brought to justice. Belgium also encourages active engagement in efforts to resolve the long-standing conflict peacefully.
