Spain, Norway, and Ireland have declared plans to formally recognise a Palestinian state, a step that is expected to strengthen the worldwide Palestinian cause while harming relations with Israel.
According to the Palestine Liberation Organisation, more than 130 of the UN’s 193 member states have recognised Palestinian sovereignty. However, the United Nations Security Council has refused to recognise Palestine as a member of the UN, citing US vetoes.
“Today, Ireland, Norway and Spain are announcing that we recognize the state of Palestine. Each of us will now undertake whatever national steps are necessary to give effect to that decision,” Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris told a press conference in Dublin.
Irish Foreign Minister Micheál Martin stated that the recognition will take effect in all three nations on May 28.
Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said the war in Gaza has “made it clear that achieving peace and stability must be predicted on resolving the Palestinian question.”
“In the midst of a war, with tens of thousands killed and injured, we must keep alive the only alternative that offers a political solution for Israelis and Palestinians alike: Two states, living side by side, in peace and security,” Støre said.
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said: “We will recognize the state of Palestine for peace, coherence and justice.”
“This recognition is not against the people of Israel and certainly not against the Jews. It’s not in favor of Hamas. It’s in favor of co-existence.”
However, the Israeli government has resisted any unilateral attempts to establish a Palestinian state.
“Recognising a Palestinian state will lead to more terrorism, instability in the region and jeopardise any prospects for peace,” the Israeli Foreign Ministry said this week.
Israel Katz, Israel’s Foreign Minister, announced the recall of the country’s ambassadors to Norway and Ireland.
“I have instructed the immediate recall of Israel’s ambassadors to Ireland and Norway for consultations in light of these countries’ decisions to recognise a Palestinian state,” Katz said.
“I’m sending a clear and unequivocal message to Ireland and Norway: Israel will not remain silent in the face of those undermining its sovereignty and endangering its security,” he posted on X.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
