Two Palestinian hunger strikers' health worsens as Belgium delays Gaza evacuations

Five Palestinians have undertaken a hunger strike, claiming they see no alternative after prolonged uncertainty and repeated protests. They represent families split by the Gaza conflict, some of whose members have obtained Belgian visas for family reunification. The strikers allege that Belgium, despite issuing visas, has not facilitated evacuations, whereas several other European nations have done so.

The most recent Belgian evacuation of visa-holders occurred in December 2025, according to the protesters. One striker, who started his fast two weeks earlier, was admitted to hospital four days ago and is now showing signs of recovery, though his release date remains undecided. On Friday night, the health of a second striker worsened. Minister of Asylum and Migration Anneleen Van Bossuyt expressed sympathy but warned that hunger strikes cannot be used to force governmental decisions.