Belgium summons US ambassador over antisemitism remarks

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot summoned US Ambassador Bill White for explanations following his comments alleging Belgium pursues antisemitic policies.

Writing on X, Prévot stated that any suggestions portraying Belgium as an antisemitic country were false, offensive, and unacceptable, describing White’s statements as a breach of diplomatic norms and an interference in judicial matters, Caliber.Az reports.

“Belgium condemns antisemitism with the greatest firmness. The fight against antisemitism, and all forms of hatred and discrimination, is an absolute priority for our country,” he wrote.

(EN) Any suggestion that Belgium is antisemitic is false, offensive, and unacceptable. Belgium condemns antisemitism with the greatest firmness. The fight against antisemitism, and all forms of hatred and discrimination, is an absolute priority for our country.

Everyone must be…

— Maxime PREVOT (@prevotmaxime) February 16, 2026

The dispute arose after White criticised an investigation in Antwerp concerning three mohels performing ritual circumcisions without a doctor present. The American diplomat contacted Belgium’s health minister, claiming the prosecution was antisemitic.

“Belgium welcomes dialogue with all partners. But interference in our democratic institutions and false accusations cross a line that cannot be crossed. Respect for sovereignty works both ways,” Prévot added.

By Jeyhun Aghazada