Spain, Norway, and Ireland have announced plans to formally recognize a Palestinian state, CNN reports. Irish Foreign Minister Micheál Martin stated that the recognition will come into force in all three countries on May 28.
This announcement was made on Wednesday by Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris during a news conference in Dublin. “Today, Ireland, Norway, and Spain are announcing that we recognize the state of Palestine. Each of us will now undertake whatever national steps are necessary to give effect to that decision,” Harris declared.
The move is likely to bolster the global Palestinian cause but is expected to strain relations with Israel. According to the Palestine Liberation Organization, Palestinian statehood has already been recognized by more than 130 out of 193 United Nations member states.
Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre highlighted the urgency brought about by the ongoing conflict in Gaza. “The war in Gaza has made it clear that achieving peace and stability must be predicated on resolving the Palestinian question,” Støre said. “In the midst of a war, with tens of thousands killed and injured, we must keep alive the only alternative that offers a political solution for Israelis and Palestinians alike: Two states, living side by side, in peace and security.”
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized that the recognition is aimed at fostering peace and justice. “We will recognize the state of Palestine for peace, coherence, and justice. This recognition is not against the people of Israel and certainly not against the Jews. It’s not in favor of Hamas. It’s in favor of co-existence,” Sánchez stated.
The recognition by Spain, Norway, and Ireland is seen as a significant step in the international efforts to support Palestinian statehood and could have substantial implications for the peace process in the Middle East.
