Norway, Ireland and Spain formally recognise the state of Palestine, France holds back
In a coordinated series of announcements, Norway, Ireland and Spain have collectively recognised the Palestinian state, prompting Israel to recall its ambassadors over the move.
Norway, Ireland and Spain have formally recognised the state of Palestine in a historic move that drew condemnation from Israel and jubilation from the Palestinians.
Israel has recalled its ambassadors from Norway, Ireland and Spain.
It was a lightning cascade of announcements, starting with Norway, whose Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said “there cannot be peace in the Middle East if there is no recognition.”
“By recognising a Palestinian state, Norway supports the Arab peace plan,” he said.
Several European Union countries have in the past weeks indicated that they plan to make the recognition, arguing a two-state solution is essential for lasting peace in the region.
France has reiterated is is not a "taboo" to recognise a Palestinian state, but Paris considers that now is not the right moment for it do so.
Norway – which is not a member of the European Union but mirror its moves – has been an ardent supporter of a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians.
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