Spain, Ireland, and Norway are set to officially recognize the State of Palestine on Tuesday, despite strong opposition from Israel. These countries will join over 140 members of the United Nations in this significant move. The governments of Madrid, Dublin, and Oslo have stated that they want to accelerate efforts to halt the ongoing conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.
Statements from Spain
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, addressing the nation on television before the cabinet’s approval of the decision, called it a historic move aimed at achieving peace between Israelis and Palestinians. He emphasized that Spain will recognize a united Palestinian state, including Gaza and the West Bank, with East Jerusalem as its capital under the administration of the Palestinian National Authority.
International Reactions and Statements
The Palestinian Authority, which has limited control in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, welcomed this decision. Prime Minister Sanchez reiterated that Spain does not recognize any changes to the pre-1967 borders unless agreed upon by both parties. He highlighted that the only path forward is one where everyone accepts the two-state solution as the only viable path to a peaceful future, where a Palestinian state coexists with Israel in peace and security.
Ireland’s Diplomatic Moves
Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs announced last week that it would upgrade its representative office in Ramallah, located in the West Bank, to an embassy and appoint an ambassador there. Additionally, the Palestinian mission in Ireland will be given embassy status. The Irish government hopes that other European Union (EU) countries will follow suit.
Norway’s Position
Norway, along with Spain and Ireland, hopes to inspire other EU nations to recognize Palestine. The EU and its member states have consistently condemned the Hamas-led attack on October 7 but have also criticized Israel’s actions.
Ongoing Conflict and Humanitarian Impact
Currently, Israel’s latest attacks have targeted Rafah, where Palestinian health workers reported at least 35 deaths due to Israeli airstrikes on Sunday. In Ireland, the Palestinian flag was seen flying outside the Irish Parliament, and the government is poised to recognize the State of Palestine formally.
Statements from Irish Officials
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris, speaking to journalists before the cabinet meeting, expressed the Irish people’s understanding that a two-state solution is the only viable path to bringing peace and stability to both Israelis and Palestinians.
Conclusion
The recognition of the State of Palestine by Spain, Ireland, and Norway represents a significant diplomatic step in the ongoing quest for peace in the Middle East. These countries’ actions underline a commitment to a two-state solution and aim to provide a peaceful and stable future for both Palestinians and Israelis. The move also serves as a call to other EU nations to consider similar actions, potentially shifting the diplomatic landscape in favor of recognizing Palestinian statehood.