Norway, Ireland, and Spain announced on Wednesday their decision to recognize a Palestinian state starting May 28. This move has been met with jubilation from Palestinian leaders and strong condemnation from Israel.
The three European nations are hopeful that their decision will inspire other countries in Europe to follow suit. However, France has stated that it does not believe the timing is right for such a move at present.
In response, Israel announced it would be recalling its ambassadors from Ireland and Norway for “urgent consultations,” with a similar action expected regarding its envoy to Spain. Israeli officials expressed strong disapproval, calling the recognition of Palestinian statehood a “prize for terrorism” that undermines the possibility of a negotiated peace.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris made the announcements in their respective capitals. They emphasized that their recognition aims to support the peace process and moderate voices amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Støre, referencing Norway’s historical role in Middle East diplomacy, said, “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.”
Ireland’s Harris drew parallels between the recognition of Palestine and Ireland’s own history of gaining independence. “From our own history, we know what it means,” he said, referring to Ireland’s struggle for statehood.
The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) welcomed these recognitions as “historical,” while Jordan called them “important and essential.” Hamas also praised the move as a significant step towards affirming Palestinian rights.
Despite this development, the European Union remains divided on the issue. While Slovenia and Malta have expressed willingness to recognize Palestinian statehood alongside Spain and Ireland, France remains hesitant, arguing that current conditions are not conducive to meaningful impact from such recognition.
The United States and most Western European countries have long held that recognition of Palestinian statehood should follow a comprehensive peace agreement addressing final borders and the status of Jerusalem. However, the recent escalation of violence has prompted a reevaluation of previously contentious ideas.
Sweden was the first Western European country to recognize Palestinian statehood in 2014, joining six other European nations that had already done so: Bulgaria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Romania.
