Norway will recognize an independent Palestinian state in the hope that this will help bring peace with Israel, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere announced on Wednesday. Ireland, Norway, and Spain announce recognition of the Palestinian state.
Ireland and Spain are also expected to declare their recognition of a Palestinian state, according to sources on Wednesday. Norway, Ireland, and Spain set to recognize a Palestinian state in a bold peace move.
Recently, European Union members Slovenia and Malta have indicated plans to recognize a Palestinian state, emphasizing that a two-state solution is essential for lasting peace in the region.
“In the midst of a war with tens of thousands dead and injured, we must uphold the only solution that can offer a safe home for both Israelis and Palestinians: two states living in peace,” Stoere stated at a press conference.
Before this announcement, 143 out of 193 United Nations member states had already recognized a Palestinian state.
European countries have taken varied approaches to this issue. Some, like Sweden, recognized a Palestinian state a decade ago, while France has maintained it will do so only if it can effectively contribute to progress toward peace.
These developments come as Israeli forces launched assaults on the northern and southern Gaza Strip in May, causing a new exodus of hundreds of thousands of people and significantly restricting aid, increasing the risk of famine.
Non-EU member Norway has long maintained it would recognize Palestine as a state only if it could positively impact the peace process, aligning with the stance of the United States on this issue.
A close ally of the U.S., Norway has sought to mediate peace between Israel and the Palestinians on several occasions over recent decades.
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris said the three countries will “undertake whatever national steps are necessary to give effect to that decision”. He added, “I am confident that further countries will join us in taking this important step in the coming weeks.”
Israel reacted angrily to the development by recalling its ambassadors to Norway and Ireland for “urgent consultations”. Israeli foreign minister Israel Katz said his country will not “back down against those who undermine its sovereignty and endanger its security”.
Speaking before Spain’s announcement, Katz added, “Israel will not go over this in silence – there will be other serious consequences. If Spain realizes its intention to recognize a Palestinian state, a similar step will be taken against it.”
