EU Court Approves Belgium's Ban on Kosher, Halal Slaughter

On Thursday, the European Union Court of Justice approved Belgium's laws of banning kosher, and Halal slaughter in the country.

Also, the court rejected the request filed by the Jewish communities in Belgium objecting to the Belgian ban of Kosher slaughter.

In the same context, the head of the conference of European rabbis said the ruling would be felt by Jewish communities across Europe.

This was said to "reduce their suffering," but it was widely seen as a measure targeting Islamic halal traditions.

"This decision goes even further than expected and flies in the face of recent statements from the European institutions that Jewish life is to be treasured and respected," said Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt.

Also, Israeli Ambassador to Belgium Emmanuel Nahshon said the ruling is “a catastrophic decision, a blow to Jewish life in Europe. Apparently, tolerance and persity are empty words in the eyes of some Europeans.”

Moreover, "Israel's Diaspora Affairs Minister Omer Yankelevich objected the decision, noting the devastating effects it may have on the daily lives of Jews who've built a life in Europe," according to Jerusalem Post.

"I was sorry and surprised to hear about the outrageous decision made by the European Union Court of Justice that allows members of the EU to prohibit Kosher slaughter. The ruling leaves Jews and Muslims in an impossible situation and harms the fabric of life in Europe,"  Yankelevich described.