Ireland, Norway, and Spain to Recognize Palestinian State Starting May 28
Ireland, Norway, and Spain have announced that they will formally recognize a Palestinian state starting on May 28.
Spain and Ireland clarified that their decision is not against Israel or in favor of Hamas, but rather a move to support peace.
Israel reacted strongly, warning that this decision could lead to increased instability in the region and recalling its ambassadors from all three countries.
Both Hamas and its rival, the Palestinian Authority, welcomed the recognition.
Norway was the first to announce its decision on Wednesday, in coordination with the other two countries.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre stated that the move supports moderate forces in a protracted and cruel conflict.
“This is an investment in the only solution that can bring lasting peace in the Middle East,” he said, referring to the two-state solution where Israeli and Palestinian states exist peacefully side by side.
Ireland and Spain followed shortly after.
Irish Foreign Minister Micheál Martin emphasized, “Today, we state clearly our unambiguous support for the equal right to security, dignity, and self-determination for the Palestinian and Israeli peoples.”
Ireland’s Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Simon Harris stressed that “Hamas is not the Palestinian people” and that the recognition aims to help create a peaceful future.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez echoed these sentiments, stating, “This move is not against Israel, not against Jews, and not in favor of Hamas. It is for peace and coexistence.”
Israel reacted with anger.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the move by Ireland, Norway, and Spain a “reward for terrorism” and said it would not bring peace.
Foreign Minister Israel Katz announced the immediate return of Israeli ambassadors from all three countries for “consultations.”
“Israel will not remain silent on this matter – there will be other serious consequences,” he said.
Katz also mentioned that the ambassadors of the three countries in Israel would be summoned for “reprimand talks” and shown a video of the abduction of female Israeli soldiers on October 7.