Madrid, Dublin, Oslo – Spain, Ireland, and Norway have officially recognized Palestinian statehood, a move that further isolates Israel amid its ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza. This joint decision was announced and approved by their respective governments on Tuesday, despite strong condemnation from Israel.
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris emphasized that the recognition aims to “keep the miracle of peace alive.” This decision was made alongside Spain and Norway to present a united front, which likely accelerated the process for each country.
“We wanted to recognize Palestine at the end of a peace process,” Harris stated, “but we made this move to push for peace in light of current events.”
The recognition has sparked a furious response from Israel. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz ordered the immediate recall of ambassadors from the three countries and condemned the decision, stating, “This is a clear message – Israel will not hold back against those who undermine its sovereignty and endanger its security.”
The move by Spain, Ireland, and Norway highlights the deep divide within Europe regarding Palestinian statehood. A majority of countries worldwide recognize Palestine, reaffirmed by a recent United Nations resolution supported by 143 nations. However, European countries remain split. Some, like France, Belgium, Poland, and Greece, voted in favor of the resolution, while others, including the UK, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands, abstained.
Sweden was the first major Western European country to recognize Palestinian statehood in 2014, with then-Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom arguing that the decision met international law criteria. Despite this, many Western European countries have yet to follow Sweden’s lead, preferring to advocate for a two-state solution without formal recognition of Palestinian statehood.
In Eastern Europe, several countries officially recognize Palestine, a stance dating back to their time under Soviet influence. However, the current political climate has led some, like the Czech Republic, to distance themselves from this position. Others, like Poland, continue to maintain close ties with Palestinian authorities.
This recognition by Spain, Ireland, and Norway comes amid escalating violence and a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Gaza health officials reported that a recent Israeli airstrike in Rafah killed at least 45 Palestinians, including many displaced people. This has drawn international outrage and calls for an immediate ceasefire, with leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron condemning the violence and urging respect for international law.
As the situation continues to develop, the stance of these three European nations sends a strong message of support for Palestinian statehood and highlights the ongoing debate within Europe about the best path to peace in the region.
