'Point of no return': Belgium becomes fourth European country to ban imports from West Bank

Belgium has become the fourth European country to ban imports from Israeli settlements in the West Bank, following Spain, the Netherlands, and Ireland. The Belgian federal government adopted the ban by royal decree after political disagreements delayed its implementation since September 2025. The decision was finalized during a cabinet session before the summer recess. MK Sharren Haskel stated, "Belgium has reached a point of no return." Belgian MP Sam van Rooy criticized the government for singling out Israel while ignoring other global issues, suggesting the ban would harm Palestinians. Amnesty International welcomed the ban, with Nathalie Janne calling it "a step forward to Belgium's credit" that increases pressure for EU-wide action. NGOs also criticized the ban for not including the Golan Heights and for allowing settlement goods to enter via third-party European countries.