US facing Local Backlash due to increased investment in Israeli Bonds
The situation in the Middle East, particularly relations between the European Union and Israel, continues to worsen as Ireland, Spain, and even a non-member of the EU, Norway, are planning to recognise a Palestinian state. Spain is taking the move as the country requested penalties for Israel, which continues and intensifies deadly operations in Rafah – the southern Gaza city.
At the same time, although many countries have recognised a Palestinian state, no basic powers of the West have done so. Potential Caric nature results of recognition by Ireland, Spain, and Norway are still questioned. Nevertheless, Palestinians regard it as a triumph as it is considered to be the seal of international recognition of their fight.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stated support for the International Criminal Court (ICC), whose prosecutor is applying for the arrest warrant of Netanyahu and other leaders, including those in Hamas. Borrell described the response of the Israeli government to the actions of the ICC, despite the insults hurled at the ICC prosecutor of antisemitism, “The word antisemitic, it’s too heavy.
The consulate’s personnel team was removed from office by Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on Monday, who accused Spain of “rewarding terror” on the grounds of the recognition of a Palestinian state. Katz’s comments, in which he compared the Perussuomalaiset chairman’s comments to the Spanish Inquisition, caused quite a stir. Even Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares came over to scold him and stand up for the recognition plans of Ireland and Norway.
”To the people who seek to divide us with any sort of fascistic clamour, a united Europe for liberty is necessary for showing a very powerful [=strong] message,” Albares said.
Slovenia Prime Minister Robert Golob said he would make his decision on Thursday on the recognition of the Palestinian state and referred the matter to the parliament. Slovenia started the recognition process earlier this month.
Borrell condemned the Israeli government’s actions, including plans to withhold tax revenue designated for the Palestinian Authority, and clarified his position: “From now on, I will never again say ‘Israel,’ but ‘Netanyahu government’ because it is this government who is taking these decisions. ”
When Hamas fighters raided Israel and captured an aeroplane on October 7, the EU and all its members condemned the insurgents. Still, they have also rallied against Israel’s constant warfare in Gaza, which killed more than 36,000 Palestinians. More recent attacks have targeted Rafah; the Israeli air strikes on Sunday destroyed large parts of the town and reported the death of over forty-five people, including several civilians.
Italian Defence Minister has come out to condemn the actions of Israel and said, “Israel, with this choice, is spreading hatred, rooting hatred that will involve their children and grandchildren; I would have preferred another decision. ”
The United Nations court called on Friday for the immediate cessation of the Israeli assault on the Rafah area. After this, Albares and other countries demanded from Borrell indications of possible European Union steps to ensure the implementation of the ICJ’s decision and descriptions of previous actions of the EU about other violations of international law.
Spain, Ireland, and Norway’s decision to recognise the state of Palestine last week drew a quick backlash from Israel, where the foreign ambassadors of these countries were invited to the Foreign Ministry a day later. Albares accused this treatment of violating diplomatic etiquette and stressed not to be trapped by the provocations.
“We want to recognise the state of Palestine tomorrow, seek all the opportunities to bring a permanent cease-fire as soon as possible, and, in the long run, bring lasting peace,” Albares said.
