This picture shows damaged buildings in Gaza City. AFP
In a statement on Tuesday, the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the step supports the Palestinians' right to self-determination and marks an important milestone toward establishing an independent Palestinian state along the 4 June 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Egypt said Belgium’s decision, along with similar announcements by other countries in recent months, shows the wide international support for the Palestinian people and their legitimate aspirations.
The ministry added that the move also reflects a global rejection of what it described as Israel’s "aggressive policies," which oppose peace efforts and obstruct the establishment of a Palestinian state in violation of international law.
“The Belgian decision reflects growing international solidarity with the Palestinian people, their just cause, and their inalienable rights,” the statement read.
Cairo also praised the recent wave of international momentum for Palestinian statehood recognition, highlighting a series of declarations by countries announcing their intention to grant recognition.
“Such recognition stands on the side of humanity and helps advance the two-state solution and the launch of a serious process to restore peace, security, and stability in the Middle East for all peoples of the region,” Egypt said.
Belgium is joining a growing group that includes members of the Group of Seven nations, such as France, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
Australia and Malta have also announced similar intentions.
Globally, around 147 of the UN's 193 member states already recognize Palestine.
Since the outbreak of Israel's genocidal war on Gaza, several countries such as Norway, Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia, and other non-European nations, have officially recognized Palestinian statehood.
These moves come amid mounting global criticism of Israel's military actions in Gaza and are seen as a collective push to revive the two-state solution.
In May 2024, the UN General Assembly voted to expand Palestine's rights within the body, allowing greater participation in committee work, though without granting voting rights.
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