In a significant diplomatic move, Spain and Norway formally recognized the Palestinian state on Tuesday, with Ireland poised to follow suit, prompting condemnation from Israel amid ongoing tensions over the Gaza conflict.
Norway’s Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide hailed the formal recognition as a milestone in Norway-Palestine relations, emphasizing Norway’s long standing support for Palestinian statehood.
Spain swiftly followed suit, with government spokesperson Pilar Alegria dubbing the move a historic day, emphasizing its commitment to a two-state solution for lasting peace.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez underscored the necessity of recognizing Palestine as a step towards peace, clarifying that it was not aimed against Israel but rather aimed at securing a future where both states coexist peacefully. The decision also denounced Hamas and its role in escalating tensions.
Meanwhile, Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris acknowledged the significance of the moment, signaling Ireland’s intention to support the two-state solution.
The plans, unveiled last week, drew ire from Israel, with tensions escalating notably between Spain and Israel. Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz accused Spain of incitement and initiated measures, including halting consular services to Palestinians in the West Bank.
The move to recognize Palestinian statehood has highlighted divisions within the European Union, with some member states advocating for immediate recognition while others prioritize negotiated peace agreements.
The recognition by Spain and Norway brings the total number of UN member states recognizing Palestine to 145, reflecting renewed international calls for Palestinian statehood amid the recent Gaza conflict.
The Gaza conflict, sparked by Hamas attacks on October 7, resulted in significant civilian casualties on both sides, reigniting calls for a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
While the recognition of Palestinian statehood marks a milestone for diplomatic efforts, it also underscores the complex dynamics and entrenched tensions in the region, with the path to lasting peace remaining uncertain.