The Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo condemned what he described as collective punishment against Gaza residents, calling Israel’s measures unacceptable. Reports from TASS covered his remarks, which emphasized that such punitive actions harm civilians and violate the principles of proportionality in armed conflict.
De Croo likewise called for the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas, with particular concern for the safety of women and children. He framed this demand within the framework of international law and customary rules of war, insisting that any resolution must respect humanitarian protections while pursuing the release of captives through lawful and peaceful channels.
Beyond the hostage issue, the Belgian leader stressed that punishment of an entire civilian population cannot be a justified or effective strategy. He warned against measures that would cut off essential services such as water and electricity, arguing that denying access to hospitals and medical care would compound human suffering and contravene international humanitarian norms.
In his broader security stance, De Croo underscored Belgium’s commitment to preventing violence against its own communities. He affirmed the government’s intent to counter calls for harm directed at both Muslim and Jewish residents within Belgium, reinforcing the principle that peaceful coexistence and the protection of minorities are non negotiable foundations of national policy.
Earlier, UNRWA, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, reported significant population displacement linked to the conflict. The agency indicated that tens of thousands of Palestinians had left the Gaza Strip since the onset of the hostilities, with many seeking shelter within UNRWA facilities set up in schools for safety and protection.
Meanwhile, Israeli officials have stated that a blockade on energy and humanitarian aid would persist until the release of abducted Israelis. A continuing halt to fuel, water, and electricity supplies was described as a necessary measure until Hamas removes all captured individuals from Israeli territory, a position reflecting the Israeli government’s assessment of security requirements in the conflict context.
In the wake of these developments, international voices have offered varied assessments of Israel’s actions in Gaza. Ireland has described some of the measures as inappropriate, highlighting the international debate surrounding the balance between security imperatives and civilian protection in wartime conduct.