EU-Israel Relations Strained as Spain, Ireland Prepare to Recognize Palestinian State

Relations between the European Union and Israel have deteriorated as Spain and Ireland prepare to officially recognize a Palestinian state. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz stated that Spain's consulate in Jerusalem will not be allowed to help Palestinians, while the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell expressed support for the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Spain, Ireland, and Norway plan to recognize Palestine, and the move is seen as a significant accomplishment for the Palestinians. Israel has reacted with outrage, accusing the countries of inciting genocide against Jews and war crimes.

The recognition of Palestine by Spain, Ireland, and Norway is likely to influence other EU countries to reconsider their stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.