Spain, Norway, and Ireland have officially recognized the state of Palestine, a move that has sparked severe criticism from Israel. This development, announced in a coordinated effort, aims to revive international pressure on Israel amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The three nations’ recognition of a Palestinian state reflects growing global calls for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

On November 15, 1988, during the first Palestinian intifada, Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat unilaterally declared an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital. This historic proclamation has now gained formal recognition from Spain, Norway, and Ireland, intensifying diplomatic tensions with Israel. Despite Israel’s objections, the recognition seeks to encourage peace negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians.

The Spanish government, represented by spokesperson Pilar Alegria, stated that the decision aims to facilitate peace between the two nations. Similarly, Ireland urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Norway also conveyed diplomatic recognition to the Palestinian government, aligning its stance with the broader European consensus on the issue.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticized the decision, accusing Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez of supporting anti-Israel sentiments. Katz specifically targeted Spanish Deputy PM Yolanda Diaz, who previously endorsed the slogan “from the river to the sea Palestine will be free,” a phrase Israel views as advocating for its elimination. Diaz later clarified that her remarks supported a two-state solution.

The diplomatic move has strained Israel’s relations with the European Union, as Spain and Ireland are both EU members. The EU has also been urged by Spain to consider sanctions against Israel for its ongoing military actions in Gaza. This marks a significant shift in the EU’s approach, with Irish Foreign Minister Micheál Martin noting a serious discussion on sanctions for the first time.

The formal recognition by Spain, Norway, and Ireland acknowledges the pre-1967 borders for a Palestinian state, with Jerusalem as the shared capital of both Israel and Palestine. However, it also allows for potential changes in borders through future peace negotiations. This historic decision underscores the growing international momentum for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza, exacerbated by the October 7 attack, has intensified global calls for a Palestinian state. While the recognition by these Western European nations does not immediately impact the conflict, it significantly adds to the diplomatic pressure on Israel to reconsider its military strategies in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has faced mounting international criticism over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Despite acknowledging a recent strike in Rafah as a tragic mistake, Netanyahu has vowed to continue military operations. The new diplomatic recognitions are expected to further influence the international discourse on Israel’s actions and the broader quest for peace in the region.

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