A diplomatic dispute is escalating between the United States and Belgium after the U.S. Ambassador to Belgium, Bill White, accused the country of antisemitism and issued a travel ban to a Belgian political leader. The accusations stem from an investigation into potential illegal circumcisions, sparking a strong rebuke from Belgian officials.
Belgian Deputy Prime Minister Frank Vandenbroucke sharply criticized the U.S. Ambassador’s actions, calling the travel ban imposed on Conner Rousseau, the chairman of the Vooruit party, “a disgrace.” Vandenbroucke stated, “This is the curtailing of free speech.”
The controversy began when Ambassador White took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to level the accusations against Belgium. The Ambassador’s move has prompted a call for de-escalation from Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot.
Vandenbroucke also revealed he declined an opportunity to take a selfie with Ambassador White, stating he did not want to be associated with him. He further suggested that White had previously shared online content from Dries Van Langenhove, a convicted far-right activist.
Regarding the investigation into circumcisions, Vandenbroucke emphasized that such procedures should be performed by a qualified medical professional, noting that Jewish doctors are available to perform them. This statement appears to address concerns about the legality and medical oversight of the practice.
The situation underscores growing tensions between the two countries and raises questions about diplomatic protocol and the limits of foreign intervention in domestic legal matters.
