Ireland, Norway, and Spain recently declared their support for Palestine to be recognized as a formal state, especially in light of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Following this decision, Israel has swiftly withdrawn its ambassadors from Ireland and Norway.
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, emphasized Israel’s stance on the matter, stating, “I want to make it clear to Ireland and Norway that Israel will not stay quiet when its sovereignty and security are at risk.
Spain, Ireland, and Norway Set to Recognize Palestine State
Spain, Ireland, and Norway have announced their intention to officially recognize Palestine as a state on May 28. This move is significant for Palestinians, who have long sought recognition, especially given the recent international outcry over civilian casualties and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza following Israel’s military actions.
The decisions by these European countries could lead to more EU members recognizing Palestine and potentially prompt action at the United Nations, further isolating Israel diplomatically.
Currently, seven out of the 27 EU countries officially recognize Palestine. Among them are five former Eastern Bloc nations that recognized Palestine in 1988, along with Cyprus, before joining the EU. Sweden also recognized Palestine in 2014.
However, the Czech Republic, now an EU member, argues that the recognition given by the former Czechoslovakia in 1988 does not automatically apply to the current state. Slovakia has not clarified its position on whether it still acknowledges this recognition.
Malta and Slovenia from the European Union are considering doing the same thing. Around 140 out of nearly 190 countries in the United Nations have already acknowledged that there is a Palestinian state. Let’s explore why the recent statements from Europe could carry significance and what they entail.
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Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
In 1947, the UN suggested creating both a Jewish and a Palestinian state. However, Palestinians and other Arab nations rejected this plan because they felt it gave them too little land despite being the majority population.
After a war in 1948, Israel gained more land, Jordan controlled the West Bank and east Jerusalem, and Egypt took over Gaza.
In 1967, Israel took control of all three territories. Despite attempts at peace talks over the years, no lasting solution has been found.
Countries like the US and Britain support the idea of an independent Palestine alongside Israel, but they insist on negotiations. However, there haven’t been any substantial talks since 2009.
While EU nations and Norway aren’t recognizing an existing Palestinian state, their acknowledgment of the possibility boosts Palestinians’ international status and pressures Israel to negotiate.
This move also brings more attention to the Middle East issue, especially with European Parliament elections approaching, where there’s concern about a rise in extreme right-wing views.
What Now?
Diplomatic pressure is mounting on Israel amid the ongoing battle with Hamas, now in its eighth month. On May 11, the U.N. General Assembly voted overwhelmingly to grant Palestine new “rights and privileges,” signaling growing global backing for full voting membership. Currently, the Palestinian Authority holds observer status.
Leaders from Spain, Ireland, Malta, and Slovenia indicated in March that they are considering recognizing Palestine as a state, seeing it as a positive step toward ending the conflict.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized that recognizing Palestine isn’t about opposing Israel or its people but promoting peace, justice, and moral consistency.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide noted that while his country has long supported a Palestinian state, recognition now serves as a catalyst for progress rather than waiting until the end of negotiations.
Significance of Recognition
Although many countries have acknowledged the existence of a Palestinian state, major Western powers have not followed suit. It remains uncertain how impactful the recent recognition by three countries will be.
Nevertheless, this recognition would represent a noteworthy achievement for Palestinians, who see it as legitimizing their global cause. Norway has announced plans to elevate its Palestinian representation to embassy status, but the intentions of Ireland and Spain remain unclear.
In the immediate future, little is expected to change on the ground. Peace negotiations are at a standstill, and Israel’s government remains staunchly opposed to the idea of Palestinian statehood.
Israel Response
Israel swiftly responded on Wednesday by recalling its ambassadors from Ireland, Norway, and Spain. The Israeli government strongly opposes any discussion of Palestinian independence, viewing it as a “reward” for the October 7 Hamas attack on southern Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people and the abduction of over 250 others.
They firmly reject any attempt to legitimize Palestinian claims on the international stage.
Israel argues that actions taken by these three European countries will only solidify the Palestinian stance and hinder ongoing negotiations. They emphasize the importance of resolving all issues through peaceful negotiations.
In response to decisions perceived as against its interests, Israel frequently summons ambassadors from relevant countries and implements measures such as withholding tax transfers to the Palestinian Authority, which is facing financial challenges.
Which Countries Recognize As Palestinian State?
About 140 countries have already acknowledged the existence of a Palestinian state, which represents over two-thirds of the United Nations’ membership.
Some major nations are reconsidering their positions due to concerns about the impact of Israel’s recent military actions in Gaza. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 35,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. It’s important to note that the ministry’s count doesn’t differentiate between civilians and combatants.
British Foreign Secretary David Cameron has stated that recognition of a Palestinian state won’t happen as long as Hamas controls Gaza. However, recognition could occur during ongoing negotiations between Israel and Palestinian leaders.
France has signaled hesitance in joining other nations in recognizing a Palestinian state, despite not being fundamentally opposed to the idea. French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné emphasized the need for recognition to contribute meaningfully to a two-state solution. He suggested that immediate recognition might not effectively advance this goal.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q.1. How many countries recognize Palestine as a state?
Ans. About 140 countries acknowledge Palestine as a state, comprising over two-thirds of the United Nations’ membership.
Q.2. What prompted Spain, Ireland, and Norway to recognize Palestine?
Ans. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, coupled with humanitarian concerns, led these countries to announce their support.
Q.3. What impact could European recognition of Palestine have?
Ans. It could elevate Palestine’s international status, increase pressure on Israel to negotiate, and potentially lead to more UN action against Israel.
Q.4. What is Israel’s response to European recognition of Palestine?
Ans. Israel swiftly recalled its ambassadors from Spain, Ireland, and Norway, strongly opposing discussions of Palestinian statehood and emphasizing negotiation.
Q.5. How does recognition of Palestine affect peace negotiations?
Ans. While it signifies progress for Palestinians, immediate changes on the ground are unlikely. Israel remains opposed to Palestinian statehood outside of negotiations.
