Criminal charges have been filed against three Jewish mohels in Antwerp following a police raid last summer that alleged they performed circumcisions without medical licenses. Prosecutors say they now have sufficient evidence to pursue convictions under Belgian laws requiring that all medical procedures be carried out by licensed doctors.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar condemned the indictment, calling it a scarlet letter on Belgian society and accusing Belgium of criminalizing Jewish religious practice. He said the country was joining a small group of nations that prosecute Jews for practicing Judaism.

The United States ambassador to Belgium also denounced the prosecution, describing it as a shameful stain and warning that it would damage Belgium's reputation. He urged Belgian authorities to work with Jewish leaders to resolve the issue. Jewish community representatives argue that the raids are part of a broader campaign of intimidation targeting religious figures.