Norway, Ireland, and Spain have incited a significant diplomatic rift by formally announcing their intentions to recognize a Palestinian state, leading to Israel’s retaliatory measure of recalling its ambassadors from the three countries. The decision of the European nations arrives amid heightened tensions and increasing international condemnation of Israel’s military actions in the Gaza Strip.
In a cascade of announcements that have resonated globally, the three European countries made clear their stance in favor of Palestinian statehood. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre declared the impossibility of peace in the Middle East without such recognition. Ireland and Spain echoed this sentiment, with their leaders emphasizing the move as a stride toward peace and moral consistency. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez highlighted that this recognition is not against the Israeli people but rather “an act in favor of peace, justice, and moral consistency.”
These declarations are expected to be formalized on May 28 and represent more than a symbolic gesture. They are seen as a tangible step toward a viable political track leading to Palestinian self-determination, as noted by Hugh Lovatt, a senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations. However, he also stresses that for recognition to have an impact, it must accompany “tangible steps to counter Israel’s annexation and settlement of Palestinian territory.”
The decisions have spurred a strong response from Israel, with Foreign Minister Israel Katz immediately recalling ambassadors and summoning envoys from the three European countries. Katz accused the nations of rewarding the militant group Hamas for its actions that led to the ongoing war. “History will remember that Spain, Norway, and Ireland decided to award a gold medal to Hamas murderers and rapists,” Katz stated.
In addition to diplomatic backlash, Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir made a controversial visit to the Al-Aqsa mosque compound, a site revered by both Muslims and Jews, potentially escalating regional tensions.
The United States and the United Kingdom, while supporting the concept of an independent Palestinian state, have reiterated the stance that Palestinian statehood should be a part of a negotiated settlement.
Relevant articles:
– Israel recalls its ambassadors from Ireland and Norway over their recognition of a Palestinian state, abcnews.go.com, 05/22/2024
– Norway, Ireland and Spain say they will recognize a Palestinian state, deepening Israel’s isolation, The Associated Press, 05/22/2024
– Palestinian state: Ireland, Spain and Norway formally recognize amid Israel, NBC News, 05/22/2024
– Norway, Ireland and Spain say they are recognizing a Palestinian state in a historic move, NECN, 05/22/2024
– Hamas war in Gaza, Palestinian statehood recognition, Iran President Raisi funeral, CNN, 05/22/2024
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