Belgium's Prime Minister, Alexander De Croo, has urged the European Union to consider preventing Israeli extremists advocating violence against Palestinians from entering Europe.
Speaking before the Belgian Parliament, De Croo addressed the Israeli violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, stating that "not taking action against violent extremists like them is unacceptable," according to the French news agency.
He continued, saying, "Our country must ensure that those who commit serious crimes, such as those who engage in violence in the West Bank, are barred from entering our country and European Union states."
He also mentioned the possibility of imposing sanctions on individuals, including a "minister advocating the use of nuclear weapons against a people who cannot do anything and are currently living in horrendous conditions."
This statement followed comments made earlier this week by Israel's Heritage Minister, Amihai Chikli, who suggested that dropping a nuclear bomb on Gaza could be a possible solution.
His remarks drew condemnation from Arab and international sources. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu swiftly distanced himself from Chikli's statements, and according to the German news agency, Chikli has suspended his participation in government meetings until further notice.
The EU had previously warned earlier this month about the terrorism carried out by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, which has resulted in the deaths of several Palestinian civilians, stressing the urgent need to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.
A statement from the office of Josep Borrell, the High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, emphasized the necessity of Israel protecting civilians in the West Bank from the violence of extremist settlers and holding the perpetrators accountable.
It also called for immediate action.
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