Spain, Ireland, and Norway are poised to formally recognize the Palestinian state, a decision criticized by Israel as a “reward” for Hamas amid ongoing tensions in Gaza.
The three European nations view their move as having significant symbolic impact, potentially prompting others to follow suit.
They also highlight Norway and Spain’s historical roles in advancing Israeli-Palestinian peace efforts, notably through the 1991 Madrid peace conference, which laid the groundwork for the 1993 Oslo Accords.
Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares emphasized on Monday in Brussels that recognizing the state of Palestine is fundamentally about justice for the Palestinian people.
He asserted that such recognition serves as the best guarantee of security for Israel and is crucial for achieving peace in the region.
Albares made these statements alongside his counterparts from Ireland and Norway.
The announcement of plans to recognize Palestine came last week in a coordinated effort by the prime ministers of Spain, Ireland, and Norway, with formal recognition set to occur simultaneously in all three countries on Tuesday.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is scheduled to deliver an address at 0630 GMT, followed by a cabinet meeting to adopt a decree formalizing the recognition of Palestinian statehood.
Similarly, the Irish government will convene during the morning to address the matter.
