Israel Reacts Strongly by Recalling Ambassadors
In a significant diplomatic move, Norway, Ireland, and Spain announced on Wednesday their formal recognition of a Palestinian state, prompting immediate backlash from Israel and praise from Palestinian authorities.
Immediate Israeli Response
Israel promptly recalled its ambassadors from Oslo and Dublin and indicated plans to do the same for Madrid. Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticized the decision, labeling it a “distorted step” and issuing a “severe Démarche” to the envoys of the three nations.
Diplomatic Developments
This recognition marks a notable shift in European diplomatic stances, reflecting increasing international discontent with Israel’s recent military actions in the Gaza Strip. The recognition is scheduled to take effect on May 28 and may encourage other European nations to follow suit, further pressuring Israel to engage in peace talks aimed at a two-state solution.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The announcement comes amidst a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) recently suspended food distribution in Rafah, where over a million people have taken refuge, due to supply shortages and safety concerns amid ongoing Israeli military operations.
Statements from European Leaders
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre emphasized the importance of pursuing a political solution, stating, “Two states, living side by side, in peace and security.” Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris expressed hope that the decision would provide hope to Palestinians, while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the move as an act supporting peace, justice, and moral consistency.
Israeli Criticism
Israeli Foreign Minister Katz argued that the recognition rewards terrorism and could hinder efforts to secure the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, stating it undermines the chances for a ceasefire. He announced that ambassadors from Spain, Ireland, and Norway would be shown footage of the abduction of Israeli citizens by Hamas to highlight what he termed as a distorted decision by their governments.
Continued Conflict
The Israeli military’s operations in Gaza have intensified, resulting in over 35,000 deaths in seven months, according to local health officials. The conflict has also drawn the attention of the International Criminal Court, which plans to seek arrest warrants for key figures on both sides, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, for alleged war crimes.