Spain, Norway, Ireland recognize Palestinian state, deepening rift with Israel 

Spain, Norway, and Ireland officially recognized a Palestinian state on Tuesday, a coordinated move that intensifies international pressure on Israel amidst its conflict with Hamas. This decision, aimed at promoting peace, has been met with severe criticism from Israel, Caliber.Az reports, citing global media outlets.

Spain’s recognition:

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the decision as historic, emphasizing its goal to foster peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

Spanish government spokesperson Pilar Alegria reiterated this, highlighting the importance of the recognition in achieving peace.

Norway’s recognition:

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide called the recognition a milestone in Norway-Palestine relations, marking over 30 years of support for a Palestinian state.

Ireland’s recognition:

Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris emphasized the move as essential for keeping peace hopes alive and reiterated the need for a two-state solution.

Ireland plans to establish full diplomatic relations with Palestine, including appointing an ambassador and opening an embassy in Ramallah.

Israeli response:

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz accused Spain of inciting genocide against Jews and committing war crimes by recognizing Palestine.

Katz condemned Spanish Deputy PM Yolanda Diaz for her comments supporting the Palestinian cause and urged Prime Minister Sánchez to dismiss her.

Israel summoned the ambassadors of the three countries to express its displeasure.

EU relations:

The recognitions by Spain and Ireland, both EU members, have strained EU-Israel relations. Madrid called for EU measures against Israel for its actions in Gaza.

Irish Foreign Minister Micheál Martin mentioned the possibility of EU sanctions against Israel being discussed seriously for the first time.

The recognitions come amid a prolonged conflict between Israel and Hamas, triggered by Hamas's assault from Gaza on October 7.

The decision supports the Palestinian Authority, which seeks an independent state in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.

Sánchez’s vision includes a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, linked by a corridor connecting the West Bank and Gaza.

The coordinated recognition by these three European nations signifies a significant diplomatic shift and adds to the pressure on Israel to engage in peace negotiations.

While many countries recognize Palestine, the addition of Spain, Norway, and Ireland represents a significant victory for Palestinian diplomatic efforts and may influence other Western nations to reconsider their stance.