Ireland, Spain, and Norway Recognize Palestinian State
On May 28, Ireland, Spain, and Norway announced their recognition of a Palestinian state. This move was aimed at accelerating efforts to secure a cease-fire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
The three countries emphasized that their decision was not intended to take sides in the conflict, but rather to promote a peaceful resolution. They called for the release of all hostages held by Hamas and for a relaunch of the political process that could lead to a peace agreement.
The decision was met with mixed reactions. The Palestinian Authority welcomed the move, while Israel condemned it as a reward for Hamas's recent attacks. The United States expressed its support for a two-state solution but reiterated its opposition to unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state.
This recognition by Ireland, Spain, and Norway marks a significant development in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It remains to be seen how this will impact the future of the peace process.
Additional Information
The Oslo peace process, which was intended to lead to a Palestinian state, collapsed a decade ago.
Israel's right-wing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected a sovereign Palestinian state.
The United States supports a two-state solution but opposes recognizing Palestine without an agreement reached at negotiations.
Last month, Washington vetoed recognizing Palestine as a state at the United Nations.
The move by the three European countries is the latest example of Israel's increasing international isolation.
Spain and its allies have spent months lobbying European nations to garner support for the recognition of a Palestinian state.
Sources
Reuters
Al Jazeera
The New York Times
The Guardian