Israel has recalled its ambassadors from Ireland and Norway “for consultations” following the official recognition of Palestine as a state by both European countries.
This decision by Ireland and Norway has been met with strong condemnation from Israel’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Israel Katz, who labelled the move as “distorted.”
Katz expressed that this recognition sends a message that “terrorism pays,” highlighting the severity of Israel’s stance on the matter. He further warned that there will be “further severe consequences” as a result of these decisions.
In a statement posted on X, Katz made it clear that Israel will not remain silent in the face of actions that undermine its sovereignty and endanger its security. He criticized the timing of the recognition, especially following the recent Hamas attacks.
According to Katz, the Hamas terror organization carried out the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust, committing heinous crimes that were witnessed by the world. He accused Ireland and Norway of rewarding Hamas and Iran by recognizing a Palestinian state.
Katz argued that this step by the European countries is an injustice to the memory of the victims of the October 7 attacks. He also mentioned that this move undermines efforts to return the 128 hostages held by Hamas and strengthens jihadist groups.
The attack by Hamas on October 7 resulted in the deaths of more than 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures. Additionally, Hamas took 252 hostages, with 124 still in Gaza, including 37 whom the Israeli army reports are dead.
Israel’s retaliatory offensive against Hamas has resulted in the deaths of at least 35,647 people in Gaza, the majority of whom are civilians. The conflict has sparked significant international concern and debate.
Spain has also announced plans to join Ireland and Norway in recognizing Palestine on May 28. This decision has prompted further warnings from Israel about the potential consequences.
Katz stated, “Israel will not remain silent. There will be further severe consequences.” He emphasized that similar steps will be taken against Spain if it follows through with its intention to recognize a Palestinian state.
Speaking on the steps of Government Buildings this morning, Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris described the recognition as a “historic and important day” for both Ireland and Palestine. He expressed that the Palestinian people deserve peace, a future, and hope rather than suffering.
Harris also emphasized that the people of Israel deserve the same peace and hope, reinforcing Ireland’s support for a two-state solution as a path to lasting peace in the region. The recognition is seen as a significant step towards achieving this goal.
Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store also supported the recognition, stating that peace in the Middle East cannot be achieved without recognizing Palestine as an independent state. He highlighted the importance of a two-state solution.
The decision by Ireland, Norway, and soon Spain, is part of a broader international movement to support Palestinian statehood and the two-state solution as a means to end the long-standing conflict between Israel and Palestine.
However, Israel views these recognitions as undermining its security and sovereignty, especially in light of recent violent conflicts. Katz’s statements reflect the deep tensions and the complex geopolitics involved.
The international community remains divided on the issue, with some countries advocating for Palestinian statehood as a step towards peace, while others support Israel’s right to security and defense.
As the situation develops, the diplomatic and geopolitical implications of these recognitions will continue to unfold, impacting the prospects for peace and stability in the Middle East.
