Why Spain will recognize Palestinian statehood
Washington PostMay 04
Spain Would Only Recognize Palestine State in Joint Action
The Facts
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said Friday that Spain would only recognize a Palestinian state as part of a joint action with other countries and denied rumors that it would happen on May 21.
Sánchez will reportedly reveal the date for recognizing Palestine on Wednesday, telling a private TV station that his government was already coordinating the decision with other countries. He previously suggested that Slovenia and Ireland were among those interested.
The Spin
Pro-Israel narrative
A Palestinian state should only be recognized after a peace agreement with Israel is reached, which requires mutual recognition and compromise. UN member states should focus on fostering trust and respect between the parties rather than imposing outcomes. Prematurely recognizing Palestine undermines the efforts of UN members to promote the rule of law and the international legal order.
Pro-Palestine narrative
Although it's doubtful a Palestinian state would be viable in the face of Israel's ongoing military occupation, Spain seems ready to stand up for what's right. This decision makes perfect sense given Spain's historical and cultural ties to the Arab world and its commitment to humanitarianism. Governments across the West have expressed a desire for a two-state solution, but Spain is putting its money where its mouth is.