Ireland, Norway and Spain have officially recognised Palestine as a separate state, prompting Israel to recall its ambassadors from two of the European states.
Speaking on Wednesday, Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris said: "Today Ireland, Norway and Spain are announcing that we recognise the state of Palestine, each of us will undertake whatever national steps are necessary to give effect to that decision.
"I am confident that further countries will join us in taking this important step in the coming weeks."
Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz ordered Israel’s ambassadors from Ireland and Norway to immediately return to Israel. He spoke before Spain’s announcement.
“Ireland and Norway intend to send a message today to the Palestinians and the whole world: terrorism pays,” Katz said.
He said that the recognition could impede efforts to return Israel’s hostages being held in Gaza and makes a cease-fire less likely by “rewarding the jihadists of Hamas and Iran.” He also threatened to recall Israel’s ambassador to Spain if the country takes a similar position.
Regarding the Israeli decision to recall its ambassador in Oslo, Gahr Støre said “we will take note of that. This is a government with which we have many disagreements. What we agree on is to condemn Hamas’s cruel attack on Oct. 7.”
Ireland, Spain and Norway to recognise Palestinian state
Irish leader declares ‘unequivocal support’ for two-state solution, as Israel recalls ambassadors from Dublin and Oslo
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'Historic day' as Ireland recognises Palestinian state
Coverage of all today's developments as Ireland and a number of other European countries formally recognise the state of Palestine.
