The prime ministers of Ireland, Norway, and Spain announced intentions to officially recognize Palestinian statehood on Wednesday.

The Details: Official recognition by these three countries marks a significant boost to the cause of independent Palestinian statehood; 146 out of 193 United Nations member states now recognize a state of Palestine. This does not imply a downgrading of the countries’ diplomatic ties with Israel; Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre framed the move as a push towards a two-state solution. 

Reactions: Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz announced the immediate recall of Israel's ambassadors to Ireland and Norway, while warning of “severe consequences” for Spain if it proceeds. Katz framed the collective recognition as a reward for Hamas terrorism. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Mission to the United Nations expressed gratitude for this declaration and appealed to other nations to support their struggle for liberation and independence.

How the Media Covered It: Coverage often echoed pre-existing divides on Israel and Palestine, employing common types of bias. Fox News (Right bias), which has been generally supportive of the Israeli war effort, highlighted a House Democrat who “blasted” the European countries — a common media practice where a political opposite’s agreement is highlighted to make one’s own side appear more rational. Meanwhile, the pro-Palestinian Middle East Eye (Left bias) used a photo of Spanish lawmakers smiling, signaling a positive emotional reaction to the story. This summary was developed with the help of AllSides' AI technology.