Norway's Prime Minister announced on Wednesday that the country has officially recognized Palestine as a state, according to AP. Meanwhile, Ireland and Spain are expected to reveal plans for similar recognition on the same day, despite warnings from Israel about potential consequences.
In Ireland, Prime Minister Simon Harris, Deputy Premier Micheál Martin, and Minister Eamon Ryan are scheduled to hold a press conference on Wednesday morning. Both RTÉ and the Irish Times reported that the decision to recognize Palestinian statehood is expected to be announced during this event.
Similarly, Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez will also disclose a formal recognition date on Wednesday, after stating his intention to do so last week.
Norway's public broadcaster NRK and newspaper Aftenposten reported that Norway will also announce recognition of an independent Palestinian state, citing unnamed sources. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre had previously indicated Oslo's readiness to make such an announcement, emphasizing the timing and context.
These developments occur against the backdrop of ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has prompted international calls for a ceasefire and a lasting peace solution. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, including civilians, and has heightened global attention on the region.
Several European Union member states, including Ireland, Spain, Slovenia, and Malta, have recently indicated their intention to recognize Palestine. They argue that a two-state solution is crucial for achieving lasting peace in the region.
Israel's Foreign Ministry has expressed strong opposition to these moves, warning that recognition could support extremist groups and undermine prospects for peace. Despite this, a majority of UN member states, including 139 out of 193, have already recognized Palestinian statehood.
Leaders like Pedro Sánchez of Spain have been vocal in criticizing Israel's military actions in Gaza while advocating for a two-state solution. He has condemned Hamas's actions as terrorism while also expressing concerns about Israel's compliance with international humanitarian law.
Notably, Norway, Ireland, and Spain are moving forward with plans to formally recognize Palestine as a state, despite objections from Israel, as part of efforts to support a two-state solution and foster peace in the Middle East.
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