🇧🇪🇺🇸 Belgium Summons U.S. Ambassador Over ‘Antisemitism’ Claim

In a rare diplomatic dispute between close allies, Belgium summoned the U.S. ambassador on Tuesday after he accused the country of engaging in “antisemitic prosecution” against members of its Jewish community.

The accusation, made in a social media post, sparked immediate backlash from Belgian officials and prompted a formal diplomatic response. ⚖️

🏛️ Belgium Rejects Allegations as “Dangerous Disinformation”

Belgium’s Foreign Minister, Maxime Prévot, strongly rejected the ambassador’s claims, describing them as “dangerous disinformation.”

Prévot stated that such allegations risk undermining genuine efforts to combat antisemitism and hatred. He emphasized that Belgium remains firmly committed to protecting religious freedoms while upholding the rule of law.

According to the foreign ministry, diplomats are expected to respect:

• National institutions 🏛️

• Judicial independence ⚖️

• Established diplomatic norms 🤝

Prévot added that personal attacks or interference in ongoing legal matters are inconsistent with basic diplomatic principles.

🔎 Investigation in Antwerp Sparks Controversy

The controversy appears linked to an investigation reported by national broadcaster VRT.

Authorities in Antwerp are examining whether three men performed circumcisions without certified medical training. The investigation focuses on compliance with medical regulations, rather than religious practices themselves.

Belgian officials have stressed that the inquiry is a legal and public health matter, not a religious or ethnic issue. However, the U.S. ambassador’s characterization of the case as “antisemitic prosecution” escalated tensions.

🌍 Diplomatic Norms and Bilateral Relations

Summoning an ambassador is considered a serious diplomatic step, typically used to formally protest statements or actions deemed unacceptable by the host government.

Despite this dispute, Belgium and the United States maintain long-standing political, economic, and security ties. Belgium hosts key NATO and European Union institutions, making it a strategic partner for Washington.

Observers note that while disagreements occasionally arise, public accusations of antisemitism between allied nations are highly unusual and can strain otherwise stable relations.

🕊️ Broader Implications

The incident highlights broader sensitivities around:

• Religious freedom ✡️

• Public health regulation 🏥

• Judicial independence ⚖️

• Diplomatic conduct 🌐

Belgian officials have reiterated that combating antisemitism remains a national priority and that legal investigations must proceed independently of political influence.

📰 Conclusion: Tensions Amid Strong Alliances

Belgium’s decision to summon the U.S. ambassador reflects the seriousness with which it views the allegations. While the dispute has added tension to bilateral relations, both countries continue to share deep diplomatic and strategic ties.

As the investigation in Antwerp moves forward, attention will remain focused on how both governments navigate this sensitive issue while preserving their longstanding partnership.