In a failed measure of diplomacy, Belgian Development Minister Charles Michel was refused entry into the Gaza strip. Israels's Deputy Foreign Minister Daniel Ayalon told Michel on Sunday 24 January that allowing the Belgian Minister to enter the Gaza Strip would "Bolster (Hamas) and legitimize it".

Michel has found the actions of Israel "unacceptable", and stated that he would be addressing the EU institutions on the matter.
Ayalon reportedly told Michel that he was "in good company", as a French Minister and a Turkish Minister were also not allowed access into Gaza.

Michel was seeking the Gaza visit in order to offer local residents his governments aid. Last week Amnesty International slammed Israel, with accusations of "collectively punishing" the population of Gaza with border closures tightened after the takeover of Hamas.

A political reaction from Belgium, a country which is currently funding projects in the area (and pledges to UN funds aiming to build schools in Gaza), is expected later today.