Israel Recalls Ireland, Norway, Spain Envoys Over Recognition of Palestinian State
(Bloomberg News/TNS) — Israel recalled its ambassadors to Ireland, Norway and Spain after they announced they would recognize a Palestinian state.
“Israel will not be complacent against those who undermine its sovereignty and endanger its security,” Foreign Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday in a statement. The countries are sending a message that “terrorism pays.”
Ireland, Norway and Spain plan to formally recognize a Palestinian state — comprising Gaza and the West Bank — on May 28.
Around 140 nations already recognize a Palestinian state, but very few in Europe have. Among them are Hungary and Sweden.
The U.S., Israel’s most important ally, backs a two-state solution, but says it can only come about through negotiations between the Israelis and Palestinians.
France’s government said that while “recognition of a Palestinian state is not a taboo,” it does not yet think “conditions have been met for this decision to have a real impact.”
The decision by Ireland, Norway and Spain was praised by both the PA and Hamas, which nominally governs Gaza.
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