5/28/2024–|Last updated: 5/28/202410:17 AM (Mecca time)
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez officially announced on Tuesday the adoption of his country’s decision to recognize an independent Palestinian state, and a similar decision taken by Norway and Ireland will enter into force simultaneously.
Sanchez said at a press conference in Madrid The adoption of the resolution is in line with UN resolutions and is not directed against any party, adding that his country’s recognition of an independent Palestinian state is a historic step that allows the Palestinians and Israelis to achieve peace.
He continued that Spain will not recognize any change to the 1967 borders without the Israelis and Palestinians agreeing on that, stressing that the only path to peace is the two-state solution.
Sanchez also said that his country will work with Arab countries to hold a peace conference.
The Spanish Prime Minister called for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the entry of humanitarian aid, and the release of detainees held by Palestinian factions in the Strip. He indicated that the priority now is to put an end to the unprecedented crisis in Gaza, calling for the opening of the crossings.
Spain, Ireland – members of the European Union – and Norway had previously announced official recognition of the Palestinian state, in a step that will take effect today, amid Palestinian welcome and great Israeli anger. With the recognition of the three European countries, the number of countries that have recognized the State of Palestine has risen to 147 out of 147 countries. 193 member states of the United Nations General Assembly.
These countries stressed that the decision to recognize Palestine would help establish peace and stop the war that has been ongoing in Gaza for about 8 months.
After Spain, Norway and Ireland recognized the Palestinian state, Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golub confirmed that the government will discuss next Thursday referring the file of recognition of Palestine to Parliament for ratification.
Britain, Australia, Malta, and Slovenia have indicated in the past few months that they may in turn recognize the Palestinian state.
It is noteworthy that the efforts for the State of Palestine to obtain full membership in the United Nations are facing American opposition in the UN Security Council.