Israel has revoked the accreditation of eight Norwegian diplomats working with the Palestinian Authority, prompting a strong reaction from foreign minister of Norway, who denounced it as an “extreme act.”
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz stated on Thursday that the revocation was in response to what he described as Norway’s anti-Israeli stance, including Norway’s recognition of a Palestinian state.
In response, Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide condemned the move, attributing it to the policies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Eide warned that the decision would impact Norway’s relationship with the Netanyahu government and affect their ability to assist the Palestinian population.
Norway has summoned an Israeli embassy official to express its discontent with the revocation of its diplomats’ status. The Palestinian Authority also criticized the decision, calling it a “violation and breach of international laws.”
Hussein Al-Sheikh, Secretary-General of President Mahmoud Abbas’s Palestinian Liberation Organization, expressed concern on the social media platform X, describing the decision as having “dangerous dimensions” and significant repercussions.
In the 1990s, Norway played a key role in negotiating the Oslo Accords, aimed at establishing peace between Israel and the Palestinians. Although peace remains elusive, Norway continues to lead the international donor group for Palestinians.
Despite long advocating for a two-state solution through dialogue, Norway, along with Spain and Ireland, officially recognized a Palestinian state in May. This move was intended to advance efforts to secure a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in nearly 40,000 deaths, predominantly among women and children.
