Brussels 29.05.2024 Spain, Ireland and Norway have formally recognised a Palestinian state, in an attempt to find a political solution to the war in the Middle East. Together they presume they will encourage other European countries to follow suit, in a diplomatic push that could help secure a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. This political gesture of recognition resulted in rise to 146 out of 193 UN members regarding Palestine as a state.

The symbolic decision has provoked a negative reaction of Israel’s government which has accused all three governments of rewarding terrorism.

Israel has called for consultations its ambassadors from Ireland, Norway and Spain and formally summoned their envoys in Tel Aviv. All three were not only summoned to Israel’s foreign ministry last week, but also were obliged to watch footage of the 7 October terrorist attacks.

The recognition of Palestine by the three countries has increased diplomatic pressure on Israel after two international courts called for an end to Israel Defense Forces (IDF) operations in southern Gaza and accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of war crimes.

Meanwhile the sanctions on Israeli settlers in the West Bank, defined by Israeli officials as the Judea and Samaria Area, were hardened.
The process of diplomatic recognition varies between countries, but traditionally involves a formal exchange of credentials with the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah.

Existing consulates or missions in the West Bank or East Jerusalem then receive status of embassies, while representatives are upgraded to ambassadors.