PBS
Spain, Ireland, and Norway have announced their decision to recognize a Palestinian state on May 28, aligning their stance with a long-standing Palestinian goal amid global condemnation of the civilian casualties and humanitarian crisis resulting from Israel’s Gaza offensive.
This synchronized move by two EU countries and Norway could influence other EU nations and potentially spark further actions at the United Nations, increasing Israel’s diplomatic isolation. Currently, only seven out of the 27 EU member states officially recognize Palestine, with most having done so in 1988, and the latest being Sweden in 2014.
This recognition underscores the significant support for Palestinian statehood, especially as international pressure on Israel escalates due to the protracted conflict with Hamas. Although the United States and other Western countries support a two-state solution, they emphasize that Palestinian statehood should result from negotiations.
However, the recent decisions by Spain, Ireland, and Norway are seen as symbolic gestures that enhance Palestinian international standing and pressure Israel to negotiate. The timing of this recognition also adds weight to the Middle East issue ahead of the upcoming European Parliament elections, highlighting the growing political implications.
