Norway, Ireland, and Spain announced on 22 May their official recognition of a Palestinian state, marking a significant diplomatic development amid ongoing conflict in the region. “Even in times of war, with countless lives lost and injured, we must uphold the prospect of a political solution for both Israelis and Palestinians,” said Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre during a press conference. “Two states, coexisting in peace and security, is the only viable path forward.” Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris echoed this sentiment at a press conference in Dublin, expressing hope that this recognition would “bring hope and encouragement to the Palestinian people during their darkest times.” Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called on his government to take action to “move from words to action…for peace, justice and coherence,” also highlighting that the decisions taken by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his cabinet places the two-state solution at risk. The three countries’ decision will come into action on 28 May. ISRAEL’S RESPONSE In response, Israel recalled its ambassadors from Ireland and Norway, stating it would take similar actions with Spain – who were the last to announce their recognition…
