Spain, Ireland, and Norway have formally recognized a Palestinian state. The recognition, announced on May 28, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in international efforts to address the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. It aims to refocus global attention on finding a political solution to the war in Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The decision by these three European nations has sparked a heated reaction from the Israeli government, which accused them of rewarding terrorism. Israel has withdrawn its ambassadors from Ireland, Norway, and Spain and formally reprimanded their envoys in Tel Aviv. The Israeli Foreign Ministry also summoned the diplomats to show them footage of the October 7 attacks by Hamas.
Reactions to a Palestinian State
Despite the controversy, the Prime Ministers of Spain, Ireland, and Norway have defended their decisions. According to the Associated Press, Pedro Sánchez, Spain’s prime minister, stated in a broadcast speech from Madrid that “this is a historic decision that has a single goal, and that is to help Israelis and Palestinians achieve peace.” He emphasized that the recognition was “not against anyone, least of all Israel.” He stressed that it was an essential step towards achieving peace.
The recognition process involves formally exchanging credentials with the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah. Existing consulates or missions in the West Bank or East Jerusalem will become formal embassies. Meanwhile, representatives will be elevated to full-blown ambassadors. This symbolic move intends to increase diplomatic pressure on Israel. This especially follows international courts’ calls for an end to Israel Defense Forces (IDF) operations in southern Gaza. It also takes into account the accusations of war crimes against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Broader Diplomatic Efforts
Following the recognition, Spain hosted a meeting of the Foreign Ministerial Committee of Arabic and Islamic countries for Gaza. The conference at the Moncloa Palace in Madrid included Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa and leading officials from several Middle Eastern countries. However, while many see Spain, Ireland, and Norway’s recognition of Palestine as a positive step, there are criticisms regarding its effectiveness.
Palestinian-American scholar Noura Erakat described the gesture as “too little, too late.” She emphasized that Palestinians need more than symbolic actions amid the ongoing conflict. Critics argue that more substantial measures, such as economic sanctions against Israel and a push for a broader arms embargo, would be more impactful.
