Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the European Council building in Brussels on Monday to denounce the alleged involvement of Belgian companies CENSCO and OIP Sensor Systems in Israel’s military campaign against Gaza. Both firms, linked to Israeli arms giant Elbit Systems, were accused of supplying crucial technology used in the ongoing assault described by many as a genocide. Demonstrators called on the EU and Belgian government to impose sanctions and halt cooperation with companies enabling Israeli military operations.

Under slogans such as “Stop Arming Israel” and “EU, Defend Your Values,” protesters criticised the European Union for failing to uphold its human rights commitments amid the escalating humanitarian disaster in Gaza. The demonstration took place as EU foreign ministers convened to discuss the Union’s partnership with Israel, highlighting growing public demands for accountability and a reassessment of Europe’s ties with companies implicated in the conflict.

Elbit Systems, a major player in drone and surveillance technology based in Haifa, has been central to Israel’s military capabilities in Gaza. Activists emphasised that companies supplying parts and technology to Israel bear responsibility for the widespread destruction and civilian casualties resulting from the offensive. The protestors highlighted the ongoing killing of Palestinians, including thousands of women and children, and the deepening humanitarian catastrophe under siege.

This public outcry coincides with mounting international condemnation of the Israeli military campaign, which has caused tens of thousands of deaths, mass displacement, and famine in Gaza since October 2023. Despite rulings from the International Court of Justice and global calls for cessation, the assault continues unabated. The protesters urged immediate action to cut corporate and governmental support that fuels the violence and to ensure justice for Palestinians suffering under occupation.