Belgium is under growing pressure to clarify its position on security support for Gulf nations, as Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot warns that inaction could damage the country’s

credibility on the global stage.

Speaking on VTM Nieuws on Sunday, Prévot said the federal government should revisit the issue at its next cabinet meeting, stressing that ignoring requests from key partners risks sending “a bad political signal.”

The appeal comes after the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Oman asked Belgium for defensive assistance against ongoing missile and drone threats linked to Iran. While the Belgian government discussed the request on Friday, it has so far stopped short of concrete action, opting instead for a diplomatic assessment.

Divisions within the ruling coalition remain clear. Parties such as Vooruit and CD&V oppose any involvement, warning that Belgium risks being drawn into a broader Middle Eastern conflict.

Prévot acknowledged those concerns but argued that Belgium’s role as a reliable international partner is at stake. He emphasized that support does not have to mean military engagement, suggesting alternatives such as civil protection, medical assistance, or logistical aid.

Beyond political credibility, the minister pointed to strategic interests, particularly energy security. Ongoing tensions have disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz—a critical artery for global oil supplies—raising concerns about wider economic consequences.

“If Belgium wants to maintain influence internationally, it must be willing to make courageous decisions,” Prévot said.

Opposition to military involvement remains firm. Sammy Mahdi reiterated his party’s stance in a social media response, warning that intervention abroad could heighten security risks at home. “Providing military support there only increases the risk of attacks here,” he said, adding that CD&V’s position “remains unchanged.”

The debate is expected to continue in the coming days as the government weighs its diplomatic responsibilities against domestic political concerns. Photo by Konrad Laskowski / MFA, Wikimedia commons.