Norway, Ireland and Spain announced on Wednesday, May 22, recognizing a Palestinian state.
The historic move sparked condemnation from Israel and jubilation from the Palestinians.
Israel immediately recalled its ambassadors from Norway and Ireland, reports Associated Press.
It was a lightning cascade of announcements that began in Norway.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said that “peace in the Middle East is impossible without recognition” Palestinian state.
According to him, Oslo will officially recognize the Palestinian state on May 28.
"By recognizing the Palestinian state, Norway supports the Arab peace plan", &ndash ; he said.
Several EU countries have signaled in recent weeks that they are planning such recognition, saying a two-state solution is necessary to achieve lasting peace in the Middle East.
"The terror was committed by Hamas and militant groups that are not supporters of the two-state solution and Israel– stated the head of the Norwegian government. – Palestine has a fundamental right to an independent state.”.
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris also issued a statement noting that the move was coordinated with Spain and Norway.
"This is a historic and important day for Ireland and Palestine", – he said.
According to him, this step is intended to help resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on a two-state solution.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said that his country also recognizes a Palestinian state May 28.
"This recognition is not directed against anyone, it is not directed against the Israeli people,” – Sanchez stressed, acknowledging that the move would likely cause diplomatic tension with Israel.
"This is an act in favor of peace, justice and moral consistency.", – he added.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz demanded that the ambassadors to Ireland and Norway return to Israel immediately.
"Ireland and Norway today intend to send signal to the world: terrorism pays off,”– said Katz.
He also threatened to recall the Israeli ambassador to Spain.
Prepared by: Sergei Daga