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

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.

Belgium summoned the U.S. ambassador, Bill White, on Tuesday following his social media post accusing the country of antisemitism. The rare diplomatic move was prompted by White's claim that Belgium was engaging in the "unacceptable harassment" of the Jewish community in Antwerp regarding an investigation into uncertified circumcisions. Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot refuted the accusation, calling it "dangerous disinformation" and a violation of diplomatic norms. Prevot stated that White's actions constituted interference in judicial matters and personal attacks against a Belgian minister. The incident has strained relations between the typically close allies.