MADRID: “Spain and Ireland and Norway Recognize Palestinian State”, in a coordinated decision
slammed by Israel as a “reward” for Hamas, more than seven months into the devastating Gaza war.
The recognition of a Palestinian state by Spain, Ireland, and Norway is seen as having a
significant symbolic impact, potentially encouraging other nations to take similar steps. This
move underscores a growing international sentiment in support of Palestinian statehood and the
two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
After Ireland’s government formally approved the measure, Prime Minister Simon Harris said the aim
was to keep Middle East peace hopes alive.
“We had wanted to recognise Palestine at the end of a peace process. However, we have made this
move alongside Spain and Norway to keep the miracle of peace alive,” he said in a statement,
urging Israel to “stop the humanitarian catastrophe” in Gaza.
The Norwegian Foreign Minister, Espen Barth Eide, celebrated the implementation of Oslo’s
recognition of Palestine, describing it as “a special day for Norway-Palestine relations.” This statement reflects Norway’s commitment to fostering diplomatic ties and supporting the Palestinian cause.
After Spain’s cabinet endorsed the decision to recognize Palestine, Foreign Minister Jose Manuel
Albares remarked that it was a historic day that would be “etched in Spain’s history.” This emphasizes
the significance of Spain’s stance on the issue and its commitment to advancing the cause of Palestinian statehood.
Earlier, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said recognition was “essential” for peace, insisting
the move was “not against anyone, least of all Israel” and the only way to secure a future of two
states living side-by-side “in peace and security”.
