3 European countries recognize Palestine as a state

Three European countries on Wednesday decided to recognize Palestine as a state.

The formal recognition of Palestine as a state by Norway, Ireland and Spain will enter into force on May 28, 2024

“In the midst of a war, with tens of thousands killed and injured, we must keep alive the only alternative that offers a political solution for Israelis and Palestinians alike: Two states, living side by side, in peace and security,” Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said.

“There will be no peace in the Middle East without a two-state solution. There can be no two-state solution without a Palestinian state. In other words, a Palestinian state is a prerequisite for achieving peace in the Middle East,” Store added.

Recognition of Palestine “sends a strong message to other countries to follow the example of Norway and a number of other European countries and recognise the state of Palestine,” the prime minister said.

Ireland’s Prime Minister Simon Harris announced that his country officially recognizes the Palestinian state.

“This is a historic and important day for Ireland and for Palestine,” Harris told a news conference. “I'm confident that further countries will join us in taking this step.”

Harris added that he has “spoken with a number of other leaders and counterparts and I'm confident that further countries will join us in taking this important step in the coming weeks.”

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, for his part, said that his country will recognize the Palestinian state next Tuesday.