Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib has described the situation in Gaza as a full-blown humanitarian catastrophe, affirming her country's decision to raise its diplomatic voice against Israel's ongoing actions in the besieged enclave.

In an emotional address on Sunday, Minister Lahbib condemned what she called a systematic violation of international law and questioned how much more evidence the international community needs before acting decisively. “Even if I don’t have the authority to label it genocide, the facts speak for themselves, forced displacement, a total humanitarian blockade, and clear intent to erase Gaza,” she stated.

Lahbib was especially critical of dehumanising rhetoric used by Israeli officials, saying, “Some speak of Palestinians as if they are not human beings. That alone should alarm every conscience in the international community.”

She announced Belgium’s decision to escalate its diplomatic stance in response to what it considers to be potential war crimes, already under review by the International Criminal Court. As part of its response, Belgium is exploring the establishment of a humanitarian air bridge to Gaza. However, Lahbib noted that such a move would require Israeli approval for airspace access, a significant obstacle in current conditions.

Meanwhile, hundreds of aid trucks remain stuck at Gaza’s borders, unable to reach the starving population. “This is not just a humanitarian failure,” Lahbib said. “It’s a scandal, one we cannot afford to ignore any longer.”