By Sophie Jeong, Zahid Mahmood, Al Goodman and Niamh Kennedy, CNN
(CNN) — Spain, Norway and Ireland have announced plans to formally recognize a Palestinian state, in a move that is likely to bolster the global Palestinian cause but strain relations with Israel.
Palestinian statehood has been recognized by more than 130 out of 193 member states of the United Nations, according to the Palestine Liberation Organization.
The recognition will come into force in all three countries on May 28, Irish foreign minister Micheál Martin said.
The landmark decision by three key European players sparked swift condemnation from Israel, with a senior lawmaker ordering the immediate recall of Israeli ambassadors to Ireland and Norway.
Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said the war in Gaza has “made it clear that achieving peace and stability must be predicted on resolving the Palestinian question.”
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said: “We will recognize the state of Palestine for peace, coherence and justice.”
“This recognition is not against the people of Israel and certainly not against the Jews,” he said. “It’s not in favor of Hamas. It’s in favor of co-existence.”
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said his country “will not hold back against those who undermine its sovereignty and endanger its security.”
The-CNN-Wire
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