Palestinian Envoy Urges Stronger European Action in Lecture at Brussels University

BRUSSELS /PNN/ The Palestinian ambassador to the European Union, Belgium and Luxembourg, Amal Jadou Shakaa, called for stronger European action to uphold international law during a lecture at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel attended by more than 200 students and researchers.Speaking to an audience of humanities and international law specialists, Jadou Shakaa outlined recent political and on-the-ground developments in the Palestinian territories, focusing on the situation in Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem, within a broader discussion on European responsibilities.She highlighted the scale of humanitarian devastation in Gaza, citing severe deterioration in health and environmental conditions and the spread of disease among displaced populations amid limited humanitarian aid access. More than two million Palestinians are living in conditions that threaten basic survival, she said.The ambassador also addressed developments in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, pointing to continued settlement expansion, forced displacement and rising settler violence, as well as violations affecting religious sites. She said such practices constitute breaches of international law and reflect a “de facto annexation.”Jadou Shakaa stressed that the conflict is political in nature and requires a political solution, reiterating that a two-state solution remains the most viable path to regional stability.Discussions also touched on Belgium and the European Union’s positions, including ongoing debates over restricting imports from settlements, reviewing cooperation agreements with Israel, and recognizing a Palestinian state. She referenced a recent Brussels appeals court ruling calling for greater efforts to prevent serious violations of international law.The lecture drew strong engagement from students, who raised questions about their role in addressing global issues. Jadou Shakaa said universities are not only spaces for knowledge but also “spaces of conscience,” emphasizing the importance of academic engagement and student activism in promoting accountability.She concluded by urging students not to remain neutral on humanitarian issues and to stand for justice and human rights.