From the Liveblog of
Wednesday, May 22, 2024
Katz recalls envoys from Norway, Ireland over Palestinian state recognition: ‘Israel will not let this go quietly’
Lazar Berman is The Times of Israel's diplomatic reporter
Foreign Minister Israel Katz recalls the Israeli ambassadors in Ireland and Norway for immediate consultations as Oslo announces it will recognize a Palestinian state, and with Dublin expected to make a similar decision.
“I am sending an unequivocal message to Ireland and Norway — Israel will not let this go quietly.”
He says he will do the same if Spain follows suit.
“Ireland and Norway intend to send a message to the Palestinians and the entire world — terror pays,” says Katz in a statement, adding that they are “giving a prize to Hamas and Iran.”
“The twisted step by these states is an affront to the victims of October 7,” he continues. “It also harms efforts to bring back the 128 hostages.”
Katz adds that it makes peace less likely and undermines Israel’s right to self-defense.
“The Irish-Norwegian parade of stupidity does not deter us,” Katz concludes, “we are determined to achieve our goals: returning security to our citizens, toppling Hamas, and bringing back the hostages.”
The Times of Israel Community.