Spain recognizes State of Palestine
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced that Spain is set to recognize the State of Palestine, marking a significant step in international diplomacy. The cabinet’s expected approval of this decision is deemed “historic” by Sánchez, positioning Spain alongside over 140 countries globally ready to acknowledge Palestine.
Sánchez emphasized that this recognition is not only a matter of historical justice for the generations of Palestinian people but also a crucial step towards achieving genuine peace. The decision aligns with UN Security Council resolutions 242 and 338, which advocate a land-for-peace framework, and Spain’s stance within the European Union.
According to Sánchez, it is “essential” for Palestine to secure its rightful place in the international community. He clarified that this recognition does not signify a withdrawal of support from Israel, describing the move as not being “against anyone, least of all Israel, a friendly nation.”
In his announcement, Sánchez also condemned the actions of Hamas, labeling the group as a “terrorist organization” that opposes the two-state solution. Instead, the Spanish government plans to support the Palestine National Authority in its reform efforts under its new government.
Spain aims to continue collaborating with Arab partners and the broader international community to promote peace and prosperity in the region, striving to make the two-state solution a feasible reality. “With today’s decision, we assume our responsibility in the search for peace, security, and prosperity of all peoples in accordance with the mandate of the preamble of our national constitution,” Sánchez stated.
This development comes as Ireland and Norway also plan to officially recognize a Palestinian state, contributing to the momentum of international recognition. While major Western powers have yet to recognize the State of Palestine, the actions of Spain, Ireland, and Norway represent a significant diplomatic achievement for the Palestinians, who see it as a validation of their struggle for legitimacy on the world stage.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz has previously criticized Spain for “rewarding terror” through its recognition of Palestine, vowing retaliation against perceived threats to Israel’s existence. In response, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares dismissed these comments, highlighting similar unjustified provocations faced by Ireland and Norway from Israeli officials.
Albares stressed the importance of European unity in the face of such divisive rhetoric, emphasizing that a cohesive European stance sends a powerful message. Slovenia is also considering recognition of Palestine, with Prime Minister Robert Golob set to present the decision to parliament for final approval.
In a related development, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell expressed support for the International Criminal Court (ICC), whose prosecutor is seeking arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other leaders, including those of Hamas. Borrell condemned the accusations of antisemitism directed at the ICC prosecutor, asserting the seriousness and significance of such claims.
