Spain, Ireland, Norway recognise Palestine statehood; Israel reacts
Updated: May 22nd, 2024
Rooting for the ‘two-state solution’ of the Israel-Palestine conflict, European countries of Spain, Ireland, and Norway recognised the statehood of Palestine today, serving a big jolt to Israel.
“Today, Ireland, Norway, and Spain are announcing that we recognise the state of Palestine,” Ireland’s Prime Minister Simon Harris said at a news conference.
What is a two-state solution?
The two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict calls for the establishment of Palestine as an independent state, along with the state of Israel.
Israel recalls ambassadors
Reacting to the European countries recognising Palestine, Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz ordered the ‘immediate return’ of Israeli ambassadors to Ireland and Norway.
“I am sending a clear message today – Israel will not be complacent against those who undermine its sovereignty and endanger its security,” said Katz.
“Ireland and Norway intend to send a message to the Palestinians and the whole world today: Terrorism pays. After the terrorist organisation Hamas carried out the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust, after it committed the most horrific sex crimes the world has seen, these countries chose to give a reward to Hamas and Iran by recognising a Palestinian state,” he added.
He stated that the ‘distorted step’ taken by both countries is an ‘injustice’ to the memory of the Oct 7 victims and a ‘blow’ to efforts being made to ensure a safe return of the 128 hostages.
“Israel will not remain silent – there will be further severe consequences. If Spain follows through on its intention to recognise a Palestinian state, a similar step will be taken against it,” Kantz warned.
(With inputs from IANS)
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