Israel withdraws envoys from Ireland and Norway.
European nations Ireland and Norway plan to recognize Palestine as an independent state during the ongoing Gaza conflict. Israel's Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, responds by withdrawing his country's ambassadors from these nations for urgent talks. Katz rebukes this decision, warning it could jeopardize Israel's security.
In a bold step, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz orders the withdrawal of his country's ambassadors from Ireland and Norway for immediate discussions. He delivered a strong message through Platform X about the two countries' decision to acknowledge a Palestinian nation: "Israel won't tolerate those who try to erode its sovereignty and endanger its safety."
Katz strongly criticized the move made by these nations, stating that it rewards terrorism with its financial incentives and recognition. He added, "This step is an injustice to the memory of the victims of October 7's massacre committed by the Islamic terror group Hamas, which killed more than 1,200 Israelis." The Minister menaced that "Israel will take further serious measures" if the situation continues to escalate.
The Norwegian Prime Minister, Jonas Gahr Støre, defended the decision, saying, "No peace can exist in the Middle East without recognition." He reiterated the idea of both Israelis and Palestinians living in peace by establishing separate states while preserving their rights. The Norwegian Government released an official statement mentioning, "The Palestinians have the basic, inalienable right to have an independent state."
This move wasn't unexpected as Spain had left a trail of breadcrumbs leading to the same decision. In March, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez joined forces with the leaders of Ireland, Slovenia, and Malta, announcing their collective intention to recognize a Palestinian state in Brussels. In April, Sánchez visited Norway and Ireland, where he met with the leaders of these nations and confirmed their commitment to working together on this recognition issue. Sweden had previously recognized Palestine as a state 10 years ago.
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Israel also considers recalling its ambassador to Ireland in response to the country's plans to recognize Palestine, mirroring Norway's move. Moreover, Israel's relationship with various international entities, such as Ireland and Norway, may hinge on the outcome of diplomatic discussions regarding Palestine's status.
Source: www.ntv.de
