Belgium Bans Imports from Israeli Settlements

Belgium has approved a ban on imports of goods produced in Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, becoming the latest European country to take such a step.

The decision was adopted at the government's final meeting before the summer recess, following months of coalition discussions. The legislation and enforcement mechanism are still being finalized, but the measure establishes a principle of banning settlement products.

Belgium joins Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands and Norway in restricting trade with Israeli settlements, while the European Union has yet to reach a common position on the issue.

The move comes days after EU foreign ministers discussed possible restrictions on settlement trade, including an import ban, special tariffs and a licensing system, but failed to reach a consensus.

Egypt welcomed Belgium's decision, calling it a practical application of international law and urging other EU member states to adopt similar measures against products originating from Israeli settlements.