Belgium calls for 'sanctions, sanctions, sanctions' on Israel

Belgium's Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot has told The National that sanctions are the only option to force Israel to change course in the Gaza war and accept the reality of a Palestinian state. It is a position that was once marginal but is now gaining more traction within European countries. A dozen states, from Europe and elsewhere, this week recognised Palestine alongside Belgium in a French-led effort. "I think there is only one thing to do: sanctions, sanctions, sanctions against the Israeli government," Mr Prevot, a centre-right politician, said alongside the UN General Assembly in New York.