Israel says it's recalling ambassadors from Ireland and Norway over Palestinian state recognition
Israel Katz has ordered Israel's ambassadors from Ireland and Norway to immediately return to Israel, as Norway said it would recognize a Palestinian state and Ireland was expected to do the same.
«Ireland and Norway intend to send a message today to the Palestinians and the whole world: terrorism pays,» Katz said.
He said that the recognition could impede efforts to return Israel's hostages being held in Gaza and makes a cease-fire less likely by «rewarding the jihadists of Hamas and Iran.» He also threatened to recall Israel's ambassador to Spain if the country takes a similar position.
Earlier Wednesday, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said «there cannot be peace in the Middle East if there is no recognition.»
Gahr Store said the Scandinavian country will officially recognize a Palestinian state as of May 28.
Several European Union countries have in the past weeks indicated that they plan to make the recognition, arguing a two-state solution is essential for lasting peace in the region.
Norway, which is not a member of the European Union but mirror its moves, has been an ardent supporter of a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians.
«The terror has been committed by Hamas and militant groups who are not supporters of a two-state solution and the state of Israel,» the Norwegian government leader said.
«Palestine has a fundamental right to an independent state,» Gahr Store told a news conference.
The move comes as Israeli
