Ireland, Spain and Norway will officially recognize Palestine as a state in a move announced on Wednesday.
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the decision was based on peace, justice and democracy and was essential for the peace process.
He added that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is “still playing deaf ears… he is still bombing hospitals and schools and punishing women and children with hunger and cold.”
“This recognition is not against Israel, is not against the Jews. It is not in favor of Hamas which is something that has been said. This recognition is not against anyone, it is in favor or peace and coexistence.”
Meanwhile, Ireland’s Prime Minister Simon Harris highlighted the “appalling” conditions in Gaza as well as the starvation and humanitarian catastrophe.
“A two-state solution is the only way out of the generational cycles of violence, retaliation and resentment…”
“Today, Ireland, Norway and Spain are announcing that we recognize the state of Palestine.”
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris says this is a “historic day for Palestine” as we trust that more countries will join us in the coming weeks. pic.twitter.com/15ZPf6kPGz
— Quds News Network (@QudsNen) May 22, 2024
The Irish Foreign Minister, Micheál Martin, has confirmed Ireland’s move will take place on May 28.
“Today, we state clearly our unambiguous support for the equal right to security, dignity, and self-determination for the Palestinian and Israeli peoples,” Martin said.
For their part, Norway’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister also announced their country would recognize Palestine as a state from 28 May, with the territorial demarcation between Palestine and the Zionist entity to be based on the borders from before 4 June 1967.
BREAKING: Norway’s prime minister says Norway is formally recognizing Palestine as a state. Israel says it recalls ambassadors from Ireland and Norway over recognition of a Palestinian state. pic.twitter.com/0n6PmvZu19
— Eye on Palestine (@EyeonPalestine) May 22, 2024
In a written statement, Norway’s prime minister said Palestinians have a “fundamental, independent right to self-determination” and Israelis and Palestinians have a “right to live in peace in their respective states”.
European Union members Slovenia and Malta have also indicated in recent weeks that they plan to make the recognition also, arguing it is essential for lasting peace in the region.
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Following the announcement on Wednesday, the Zionist entity said it was recalling its envoys to Ireland and Norway for “urgent consultations”.
“I am sending Ireland and Norway a clear message: Israel will not back down against those who undermine its sovereignty and endanger its security,” Israeli foreign minister said.
Hamas, on its part, welcomed the move by the three European countries, considering the recognition as a “step towards recognizing the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.”
Source: Agencies
