Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced on Tuesday that Spain will officially recognize a Palestinian state, including the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, unified under the Palestinian National Authority with East Jerusalem as its capital. This decision comes as the EU’s relationship with Israel faces increased strain. Sanchez declared, “This is a historic decision that has a single goal, and that is to help Israelis and Palestinians achieve peace,” during a televised speech from the gates of the prime minister’s palace in Madrid.
The Spanish government will formalize this recognition in their Tuesday morning cabinet meeting. Sanchez emphasized that Spain’s decision was not against Israel, stating, “We do not adopt [this decision] against anyone, least of all against Israel, a friendly people whom we respect, whom we appreciate and with whom we want to have the best possible relationship.”
Broader EU and Global Reactions
Ireland and Norway are set to follow Spain’s lead, officially recognizing a Palestinian state later in the day. While dozens of countries have recognized Palestinian statehood, none of the major Western powers have done so until now. Norway, although not an EU member, often aligns its foreign policy with the bloc and has already handed diplomatic papers to the Palestinian government ahead of its formal recognition.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell expressed support for the International Criminal Court, which is seeking an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and leaders of Hamas. This move underscores the EU’s increasingly critical stance towards Israel’s actions in Gaza.
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Diplomatic Fallout and Future Implications
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz responded by stating that Spain’s consulate in Jerusalem will no longer be permitted to assist Palestinians. Despite this, Sanchez called for a permanent ceasefire, increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, and the release of hostages held by Hamas since the October 7 attack that prompted Israel’s military response.
Sanchez outlined his vision for a Palestinian state, emphasizing the need for a corridor connecting the West Bank and Gaza with East Jerusalem. He asserted, “We will not recognize changes in the 1967 border lines other than those agreed to by the parties.”
Path to Peace and International Support
The announcement follows months of diplomatic efforts by Sanchez, who has toured European and Middle Eastern countries to garner support for Palestinian recognition and a ceasefire in Gaza. His efforts aim to foster peace and stability in the region by supporting the Palestinian National Authority and encouraging negotiations based on pre-1967 borders.
The Spanish government’s recognition of a Palestinian state marks a significant shift in EU foreign policy and signals a growing divide with Israel. As Spain, Ireland, and Norway formalize their recognition, the international community watches closely, hoping for renewed efforts towards lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians.