'Disgrace To Humanity': Belgian King Denounces 'Humanitarian Abuses' In Gaza
Belgium's King Philippe termed the Gaza bombings as a "disgrace to humanity." His rare political statement supports the UN's call to end the crisis.
Belgium's King Philippe reacted strongly to the bombings in Gaza. He described it as a 'disgrace to humanity" in a speech on the eve of Monday's national day. Philippe's statement is gaining a lot of attention on social media as it is quite unusual to hear such direct statements from a monarch who 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," his statement at his palace in Brussels was quoted by Reuters.
'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," he added.
Philippe's strong and clear public statement marked his first outspoken stance on a conflict. Belgium's federal government has been more reserved in its criticism regarding the Gaza conflict.
The king's role in Belgium is limited to offering advice, support, and warnings to the government, without engaging in political decision-making.
Israel began its attack on Gaza after an October 2023 attack by Hamas-led fighters on Israeli towns, which resulted in 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages being taken. Since then, Israeli forces have killed over 59,000 people in Gaza, according to health officials. Much of the area has been devastated, and Israel has restricted food and other supplies.
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First Published:
July 21, 2025, 22:24 IST
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