Israel recalls envoys after Spain, Norway and Ireland agree to recognize a Palestinian state from May 28

Thursday, May 23, 2024 - Spain, Norway and Ireland have announced plans to formally recognize a Palestinian state, in a move that is likely to bolster the global Palestinian cause but damage relations with Israel.

Palestinian statehood has been recognized by more than 130 out of 193 member states of the United Nations, according to the Palestine Liberation Organization. But the United Nations security council has never accepted to recognize Palestine as a member of the UN, facing vetos by the US.

"Today, Ireland, Norway and Spain are announcing that we recognize the state of Palestine. Each of us will now undertake whatever national steps are necessary to give effect to that decision," Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris told a press conference in Dublin.

The recognition will come into force in all three countries on May 28, Irish foreign minister Micheál Martin said.

Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said the war in Gaza has “made it clear that achieving peace and stability must be predicted on resolving the Palestinian question.”

“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,” Støre said.

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said:

 “We will recognize the state of Palestine for peace, coherence and justice.”

"This recognition is not against the people of Israel and certainly not against the Jews. It’s not in favor of Hamas. It’s in favor of co-existence."

However, the government in Israel has rejected any unilateral attempts to impose a Palestinian state.

“Recognising a Palestinian state will lead to more terrorism, instability in the region and jeopardise any prospects for peace,” the Israeli Foreign Ministry said this week.

Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz announced the recall of the country’s ambassadors from Norway and Ireland.

I have instructed the immediate recall of Israel’s ambassadors to Ireland and Norway for consultations in light of these countries’ decisions to recognise a Palestinian state,” Katz said.

“I’m sending a clear and unequivocal message to Ireland and Norway: Israel will not remain silent in the face of those undermining its sovereignty and endangering its security,” he posted on X.