Spanish Prime Minister Calls for Recognition of Palestinian State
Before calling a cabinet meeting, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated, “Recognition of the State of Palestine is not only a matter of historic justice… It is also an essential requirement if we are all to achieve peace.” The action was “not against anyone, least of all Israel,” Sanchez added.
European Nations Formally Recognize Palestinian State
In a move denounced by Israel as a “reward” for Hamas, Spain and Norway moved to formally recognise a Palestinian state with Ireland to follow suit. The three European nations believe that their decision has a powerful symbolic impact and may inspire other governments to take similar actions. However, Denmark’s parliament voted down a bill to recognize a Palestinian state.
According to Sanchez, the decision reflects Spain’s rejection of Hamas and its support for a two-state solution. He emphasized the importance of a peaceful future with a Palestinian state living alongside Israel in security.
Reactions to the Decision
Israel reacted strongly to the decision, straining its relations with Spain. Yolanda Diaz, Sanchez’s far-left deputy, supported the action, while Israel’s envoy in Madrid criticized it as a call for Israel’s elimination.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz condemned Sanchez’s decision, accusing it of inciting genocide and war crimes against the Jewish people.
European Union’s Stance
Recognizing Palestinian statehood has sparked a debate within the European Union. While 145 out of 193 UN members officially acknowledge Palestinian statehood, the EU member nations have varying positions on the matter.
Sweden was the first EU member to recognize a Palestinian state in 2014, followed by Bulgaria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Romania.
