EU countries consider recognizing Palestinian statehood – Novinite.com

Spain, Ireland and others EU nations intend to recognize Palestinian statehood on May 21, as Josep Borrell, the EUthe country’s top diplomat for foreign and security policy, Reuters reported. This announcement precedes the planned one UN vote on the Palestinian application to become a full member of the global body.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez previously revealed in March that Spain, along with Ireland, Slovenia and Malta, had agreed to take steps to recognize Palestine as a state. They argue that a two-state solution is crucial to achieving lasting peace in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Asked by Spanish radio RNE whether May 21 would mark the acknowledgement of Palestine by Spain, Ireland and others EU members, Borrell confirmed this assertion, also mentioning Slovenia. He added that Belgium and other member states would follow this example.

Earlier statements by Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares suggested that the decision to acknowledgement had been made, although no specific date was mentioned.

As casualties rise in Israel’s military campaign in the Gaza Strip targeting Hamas following a deadly attack by the group in southern Israel, international calls for a ceasefire and resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict have intensified.

Israel has criticized plans to recognize Palestine as a reward for terrorism and potentially an obstacle to diplomatic resolutions to the Gaza conflict.

THE UN The General Assembly is about to approve the Palestinian today submitted its application for full membership, declaring the State of Palestine ready for membership and urging the Security Council to consider the matter favorably.

Irish national media suggest that Spain, Ireland, Slovenia and Malta are waiting for the UN vote and consider coordination acknowledgement on May 21.

Although the spokesperson for the Spanish Foreign Ministry has not yet responded to requests for comment, other countries have not responded immediately either.

Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob previously announced that his country would recognize Palestine by the end of June.

Since 1988, 139 of 193 UN Member States have recognized Palestinian independence.

Bulgaria recognized the State of Palestine on November 25, 1988.