Trump’s Ambassador to Belgium Is Summoned After Accusing Officials of Antisemitism

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 2 min read 100% complete by Jeanna Smialek and Koba RyckewaertFebruary 17, 2026 at 01:50 PM

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U.S. Ambassador to Belgium, Bill White, was summoned by Belgian officials after he publicly accused the country of antisemitism in social media posts. The controversy stems from White's criticism of an investigation in Antwerp into Jewish mohels performing ritual circumcisions without medical training, which he labeled an "antisemitic prosecution." White directly addressed the Belgian health minister and tagged U.S. officials, urging Belgium to allow mohels to practice their religious duties. Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot condemned White's remarks as personal attacks and interference in judicial matters, calling any suggestion of Belgian antisemitism "false, offensive, and unacceptable." The meeting between White and Belgian officials, including the secretary general of the foreign ministry, is scheduled for Tuesday amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Europe.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Gideon Sa'ar 80% Donald Trump ×280% Bill White ×3100% Belgium ×4100% Maxime Prévot ×2100%

Keywords

antisemitism 100% bill white 90% belgium 90% u.s. ambassador 80% social media 70% diplomatic norms 70% ritual circumcision 70% mohels 60% foreign minister 60% judicial matters 50%