Spain, Ireland, and Norway set course: they will recognize Palestine as a State on May 28th.

Spain, Ireland, and Norway will recognize Palestine as a state on May 28th Spain, Ireland, and Norway have taken a significant step by announcing their decision to recognize Palestine as a state at the end of this month, marking a clear division within the European Union regarding the conflict in the Gaza Strip. This decision has created a strong contrast with countries like Germany and France, which still believe that there are not enough elements to support this recognition. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated before Parliament that, despite the efforts of the 27 EU member states to call for a ceasefire in Gaza and support the two-state solution (Israel and Palestine), it is necessary to acknowledge that these actions have not been sufficient. After intense negotiations with other European capitals, Sánchez announced that Spain will join Ireland and Norway in recognizing the Palestinian state on May 28th. Israel's response was not delayed, calling back its ambassadors from the three countries that made this decision. However, for Spain, Ireland, and Norway, this step is crucial to advance towards a two-state solution that guarantees peace and security for both Israel and Palestine, as well as their respective peoples. Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris emphasized the importance of moving from words to action, pointing out the need to stop the "pain and so much destruction" policy of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which jeopardizes the two-state solution. Harris stressed that this is the only credible way to achieve lasting peace in the region. Spain, Ireland, and Norway hope that their decision to recognize Palestine as a state will be followed by other European countries. Slovenia and Malta have already expressed their desire to take a similar step, while Sweden has been the only EU member state to recognize Palestine so far. Other countries like France and Germany, although they support the two-state solution, believe that the recognition of Palestine should arise from direct negotiations between the conflicting parties. Saudi Arabia has praised the initiative of Madrid, Dublin, and Oslo, calling it a positive decision. Meanwhile, Israel has reacted by calling back its ambassadors and warning that the hasty steps of these countries will have serious consequences. The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) has celebrated the decision as a historic milestone, while Hamas has described it as the beginning of an important stage in the peace process. Amidst this division in the European Union and tensions in the region, it is clear that the recognition of Palestine as a state remains a controversial issue and poses significant challenges on the path towards a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict in the Middle East. With different stances and perspectives at play, the road to peace remains a complex challenge that requires dialogue, negotiation, and political will from all parties involved.