Norway will recognise Palestinian state, PM says

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Spain and Ireland are also expected to recognise Palestine despite Israel’s warnings of the consequences.

Norway will recognise Palestine as a state, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere says.

A two-state solution is in Israel’s best interest, he announces, adding that the recognition will come as of May 28.

Norway announcement comes as Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is set to announce later on Wednesday a date for formally recognising Palestinian statehood.

Ireland is also expected to announce its plans for the recognition of Palestine.

Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz has ordered Israel’s ambassadors from Ireland and Norway to immediately return to Israel.

“Ireland and Norway intend to send a message today to the Palestinians and the whole world: terrorism pays,” Katz said.

Israel has said that recognition from the European nations will “fuel extremism and instability” and make them a “pawn in the hands of Hamas”.