BRUSSELS

Belgium’s federal government has yet to reach a decision on providing military assistance to Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates following requests from the two Gulf countries for support against potential Iranian attacks.

The issue has sparked debate within the ruling coalition, broadcaster VRT reported on Friday.

The New Flemish Alliance (N-VA), led by Defense Minister Theo Francken, along with the Reformist Movement (MR) and Les Engages, support responding positively to the request, arguing that Belgium should help defend civilians and maintain strong relations with the Gulf states.

Prime Minister Bart De Wever said the intention would not be to take part in a war but to help protect civilians in countries not directly involved in the conflict.

However, coalition partners Christian Democratic and Flemish (CD&V) and Vooruit have expressed reservations.
CD&V Chairman Sammy Mahdi warned that any military involvement, whether defensive or offensive, would still amount to participation in a conflict.

Vooruit leader Conner Rousseau also questioned the move, saying Saudi Arabia should not be considered an ally and warning against involvement in a situation Belgium may not fully control.

“In my world, Saudi Arabia is not an ally. If you don’t know what game you are playing, you should stay as far out of that game as possible,” Rousseau said.

During a core Cabinet meeting, Francken presented possible options to coalition partners.

The government is expected to continue discussions on the matter in the coming days and weeks.

Since Israel and the United States launched joint attacks on Iran on Feb. 28, killing some 1,300 people, including then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, hostilities have escalated.

Iran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets.