Ireland, Norway to announce recognition of Palestinian state on Wednesday

Dublin: Norway’s government will announce on Wednesday that the Nordic country recognizes an independent Palestinian state, public broadcaster NRK and daily Aftenposten reported, citing unnamed sources.

Norway’s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Irish government will also announce on Wednesday the recognition of a Palestinian state, a source familiar with the matter said on Tuesday.

European Union members Ireland, Spain, Slovenia and Malta have indicated in recent weeks that they plan to make the recognition, arguing a two-state solution is essential for lasting peace in the region.

The efforts come as a mounting death toll in Gaza from Israel’s offensive to rout Hamas prompts calls globally for a ceasefire and lasting solution for peace in the



region.

Since 1988, 139 out of 193 UN member states have recognized Palestinian statehood.

The Irish government has said recognition would complement peace efforts and support a two-state solution.

Israel’s foreign ministry on Tuesday warned against the move, saying in a post on social media platform X that recognition would “lead to more terrorism, instability in the region and jeopardize any prospects for peace.”

“Don’t be a pawn in the hands of Hamas,” the ministry said.

Hamas holds around 125 hostages seized during its cross-border rampage on Oct. 7, which killed 1,200 people, according to Israeli tallies, and triggered the war. Gaza medical officials say more than 35,000 have been killed during the Israeli offensive.