Norway, Ireland, and Spain announced that they will officially recognize a Palestinian state, marking a symbolic move that has intensified Israel’s diplomatic isolation amidst its ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Israel swiftly condemned the decision and recalled its ambassadors from the three countries.

The recognition by these European nations was celebrated by Palestinian officials, who see it as a validation of their long-standing pursuit of statehood in territories captured by Israel in the 1967 Mideast war. These territories include East Jerusalem, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip.

This development follows increasing criticism from some European Union countries towards Israel’s actions in Gaza, arguing that the war underscores the necessity of reviving efforts towards a two-state solution. Notably, over 140 countries have already recognized a Palestinian state, and the latest announcements may add momentum to this recognition drive.

The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, remains firmly opposed to the establishment of a Palestinian state. This latest diplomatic setback comes on the heels of another significant challenge for Israel: the International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor has announced plans to seek arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Israel’s defense minister, accusing them of war crimes.

In a retaliatory move, Israel summoned the ambassadors of Norway, Ireland, and Spain, accusing them of rewarding Hamas for its attack on October 7, which initiated the current conflict. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz denounced the European nations, stating they were rewarding “Hamas murderers and rapists.”

Furthermore, in response to the European decisions, Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir made a provocative visit to the Al-Aqsa mosque compound, a highly sensitive site in Jerusalem, potentially escalating regional tensions.