Saudi Arabia and Qatar have expressed their appreciation for the recent decisions made by Ireland, Norway, and Spain to recognize a Palestinian state. They are calling on other nations to follow suit and make the same recognition.
The foreign ministry of Saudi Arabia released a statement posting on X, saying, "The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia welcomes the positive decision made by the Kingdom of Norway, the Kingdom of Spain, and the Republic of Ireland to recognize the sisterly State of Palestine. This decision is appreciated by the Kingdom as it affirms the international consensus on the Palestinian people's inherent right to self-determination. The Kingdom also urges other countries to promptly make the same decision."
Saudi Arabia, known for being the home to Islam's holiest places, has always positioned itself as a supporter of the Palestinian cause and has never acknowledged the existence of Israel. However, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman stated in September that progress was being made towards a potential normalization deal that would involve enhanced security measures and other agreements with the United States.
Since the outbreak of the war in Gaza on October 7, which was triggered by Hamas's attack on southern Israel, Saudi officials have maintained that establishing ties with Israel is impossible without taking "irrevocable" steps towards recognizing a Palestinian state. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long opposed such recognition.
Israel strongly reacted to the announcements made by Norway, Spain, and Ireland, expressing anger. These countries have stated that they would officially recognize the State of Palestine on May 28.
On the other hand, Qatar's foreign ministry welcomed the announcement, considering it an important step towards supporting a two-state solution. Qatar expressed hope that other nations would also take similar measures.
The Gulf Cooperation Council, consisting of six members, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, voiced support for the actions taken by the European countries. Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi stated that these decisions represent a significant and strategic step towards achieving a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, based in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, also applauded the recognition of a Palestinian state, considering it an important historic milestone.
