Extreme anger struck the Israeli government after three European countries formally recognized the State of Palestine on May 28.
Recognition of the State of Palestine
The three European countries, Spain, Ireland, and Norway, announced that they would recognize the Palestinian state, more than seven months after the devastating war in Gaza, and the brutal killing of thousands of men, women, and children by Israeli occupation forces’ aircraft.
The three countries explained that they will officially announce to the whole world on May 28 that they officially recognize the State of Palestine, which was welcomed by the Arab and Islamic countries in the world and supporters of the Palestinian people.
Israeli anger
For its part, the Israeli government expressed its strong anger at the decision of the three European countries, and Israel accused this decision of being a “reward for terrorism.”
Israeli government officials added that this decision is a reward for Hamas, after its last attack on October 7 of last year, 2023, which led to the Gaza War.
Recognition of Palestine will enter into force on May 28
For his part, Espen Barth Ayde, the Foreign Minister of Norway, confirmed that this decision regarding the official recognition of the State of Palestine will enter into force on May 28, after coordination between the governments of Spain, Ireland and Norway.
The Norwegian Foreign Minister added that this day is considered a historic and very important day for Norway and Palestine, adding that this decision aims to help push the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to a settlement through the two-state solution.
Israel recalls its ambassadors to Ireland and Norway
Israel responded to the recent decisions of the three European countries by recalling its ambassadors to Ireland and Norway, and Israeli Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz said that Israel will not remain silent on this matter. I have issued instructions for the return of the Israeli ambassadors in Dublin and Oslo to Israel for further consultations.”
He added that these ill-considered steps by the three countries will have dire consequences, and stressed that the Israeli government is taking steps against the three countries.
Spain's recognition of the State of Palestine before Parliament
For his part, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced the Spanish government’s decision to formally recognize the State of Palestine before the Spanish Parliament on May 28.
It is worth noting that Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Albarris announced earlier that he informed US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken of his government’s intention to recognize Palestine.