Moshe Friedman Seeks to Have U.S. Ambassador Bill White Expelled From Belgium
A legal dispute between Antwerp activist Moshe Friedman and U.S. Ambassador to Belgium Bill White is heading to court in Brussels on October 14, 2026. Friedman wants the Belgian state to declare White “persona non grata”, a diplomatic designation that could require the ambassador to leave the country.
The case stems from a growing conflict over a Belgian criminal investigation into ritual circumcision practices in Antwerp, as well as the ambassador’s public comments about Friedman and the investigation.
Why Does Friedman Want the Ambassador Expelled?
Friedman is involved as a civil party in the ongoing investigation into ritual circumcision practices in Antwerp. White has repeatedly criticized the investigation, arguing that the proceedings raise concerns about religious freedom. His public remarks also targeted Friedman, whom he described in media comments as a fraudster and swindler.
The dispute intensified after Antwerp’s diamond industry presented U.S. President Donald Trump with a valuable ring to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States. Friedman alleged that the gift was intended to persuade Trump to pressure Belgium over the circumcision investigation. He also accused White of being involved in the alleged attempt to influence the case.
These are Friedman’s allegations, not established findings of wrongdoing.
Friedman has separately accused White of threats, extortion, defamation and harassment. White has said he is willing to contest the accusations, but the U.S. government has invoked the ambassador’s diplomatic immunity.
What Is Friedman Asking the Court to Do?
In the latest legal action, Friedman is targeting the Belgian state and arguing that the authorities have not done enough to address what he considers the ambassador’s interference in Belgium’s internal affairs.
He is asking the court to order the Belgian authorities to declare White persona non grata within three working days and take the necessary steps to ensure that he leaves Belgium. Friedman has also requested a penalty of 8,000 euros for each violation and each day of delay.
His argument relies partly on the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which establishes rules and responsibilities for diplomats serving in foreign countries.
The dispute also touches on a broader diplomatic question: how far a foreign ambassador can go when publicly criticizing the host country’s judicial proceedings.
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot has previously criticized White’s public statements, emphasizing that Belgium’s courts must remain independent and free from political interference.
Will Bill White Have to Leave Belgium?
That remains uncertain. A court hearing does not mean that Friedman’s demands will automatically be granted. Declaring a diplomat persona non grata is normally a decision made by the receiving state under international diplomatic rules, and the court must consider the legal basis for Friedman’s request.
The case adds another chapter to an increasingly public dispute involving the ambassador, the Belgian authorities and the investigation in Antwerp.
Belgium Brief will follow the proceedings and report any confirmed decision or further developments.
