US Ambassador to Belgium Faces Diplomatic Fallout Over Antisemitism Accusations

Brussels – A diplomatic row has erupted between the United States and Belgium after US Ambassador Bill White accused the Belgian government of antisemitism in connection with the investigation of circumcisions performed by Jewish religious officials in Antwerp. The accusations prompted a summons from Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot, escalating tensions between the two allies.

Investigation into Circumcisions Sparks Controversy

Belgian authorities are investigating three men in Antwerp suspected of performing circumcisions without the required medical training . Searches of the men’s homes were conducted in May, according to the Antwerp Police . The practice of circumcision by a mohel, a Jewish religious official, is a central tenet of the faith, and is legal in the United States, though some aspects have caused controversy .

Ambassador White’s Accusations and Diplomatic Response

Ambassador White publicly criticized the investigation, labeling it “unacceptable harassment of the Jewish community” in Antwerp and Belgium . He called on Belgium’s Minister of Health to create a legal provision allowing Jewish mohels to perform circumcisions .

In response, Foreign Minister Prévot strongly condemned White’s statements, calling them “dangerous disinformation” and accusing him of undermining the fight against hatred . Prévot emphasized that an ambassador has a responsibility to respect Belgian institutions and the independence of its judicial system . She also stated that White’s “personal attacks” and interference in judicial matters violated diplomatic norms .

Belgium Summons US Ambassador

The Belgian Foreign Ministry summoned Ambassador White for consultations on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 . Despite the summons, Ambassador White stated he did not feel reprimanded by Belgian authorities .

Ongoing Tensions and Diplomatic Norms

This incident highlights the delicate balance between diplomatic engagement and respecting national sovereignty. The case underscores the importance of adhering to established diplomatic norms, including respecting the judicial independence of host nations .