Belgium has banned aircraft transporting weapons and military equipment to Israel from using its airspace or making technical stops, the Foreign Ministry confirmed to Anadolu on Friday.

The measure, which came into effect on Thursday, was initiated by Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot. It requires airlines and relevant parties to provide Belgian authorities with details of any flights carrying military equipment to Israel, Le Soir reported.

The embargo aims to prevent the transfer of arms and military goods to Israel and closes legal loopholes that previously allowed “non-stop transit” shipments, where cargo was not unloaded during technical stops. Inspections will be conducted by customs authorities and the Federal Public Service Mobility and Transport (SPF Transport).

In Belgium, regional governments issue arms export licences, while the federal authorities regulate transportation and transit. Under the new rules, the federal embargo could effectively override regional licences for flights to Israel.

“Belgium has an obligation to do everything possible to avoid contributing to this situation… Belgium is ensuring that it respects its obligations under international law and is sending a clear signal at the European and international levels,” Prévot said.

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