Belgian King denounces Gaza abuses in unusually direct remarks
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King Philippe recording his speech for Belgium's national day on July 16.
PHOTO: EPA
- King Philippe called Gaza abuses a "disgrace to humanity" in a rare, direct political statement on the conflict.
- He supports the UN Secretary-General's call for an immediate end to the "unbearable crisis" in Gaza.
- The King's strong words contrast with the Belgian government's more reserved criticism of the Gaza conflict.
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BRUSSELS – Belgium’s King Philippe described abuses in Gaza as a “disgrace to humanity” in a speech on the eve of Belgium’s July 21 national day, unusually direct remarks on international affairs from a monarch who traditionally avoids public politics.
“I add my voice to all those who denounce the serious humanitarian abuses in Gaza, where innocent people are dying of hunger and being killed by bombs while trapped in their enclaves,” he said, speaking at his palace in Brussels.
“The current situation has gone on for far too long. It is a disgrace to all of humanity. We support the call by the United Nations Secretary-General to immediately end this unbearable crisis.”
It was the first time King Philippe has spoken out so strongly and unambiguously about a conflict in public.
Belgium’s federal government has been more reserved in its criticism of the conflict in Gaza.
The King’s role in Belgium is limited to giving advice, support and warnings to the government without making any political decisions.
Israel launched its assault on Gaza following an October 2023 attack on Israeli towns by Hamas-led fighters who killed 1,200 people and captured 251 hostages.
Since then, Israeli forces have killed more than 59,000 people in Gaza, according to health officials there. Much of the territory has been laid waste and Israel has restricted food and other supplies.
Israel denies that its forces commit abuses in Gaza and says restrictions on supplies are needed to prevent aid from being diverted by militants. REUTERS
