Norway, Ireland, and Spain have made announcements to formally recognize a Palestinian state, which is seen as a blow to Israel. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre emphasized the importance of maintaining the possibility of a political solution for both Israelis and Palestinians, with two states living peacefully side by side. Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris also expressed hope that recognizing a Palestinian state would provide encouragement and hope to the people of Palestine during a difficult time. In response, Israel has recalled its ambassadors from Ireland and Norway and has indicated that Spain will also face similar actions.
Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticized the decision by Ireland and Norway to recognize Palestine, stating that it sends a message that terrorism is rewarded. He expressed concern that this recognition could impede efforts to secure the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza and make a cease-fire less likely by rewarding Hamas and Iran. This announcement comes amidst ongoing military operations by Israel in Gaza, where thousands of people have already lost their lives in the conflict.
The International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor has announced plans to seek arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, among others, for alleged war crimes in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Ireland had previously signaled its intention to recognize Palestinian statehood, a move strongly opposed by Israel amid calls for a two-state solution. Israel warned Ireland that such recognition could lead to increased terrorism, instability, and jeopardize prospects for peace.
Before these recent announcements, more than 140 out of 193 United Nations member states had recognized Palestinian statehood, with no Group of Seven nations included among them. President Joe Biden’s administration has expressed a commitment to working towards a two-state solution, which he views as the only viable path to peace. However, the United States does not formally recognize a Palestinian state at this time. The decisions by Norway, Ireland, and Spain to recognize Palestine reflect ongoing international efforts to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and promote a peaceful resolution to the long-standing dispute.
