Palestinian factions praise Ireland, Spain, Norway's state recognition
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The secretary-general of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization describes the recognition as a "historic moment."
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A boy waves a Palestinian flag as demonstrators march during a protest in support of Palestinians and calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, in Barcelona, Spain, on January 20, 2024. (AP)
The Hamas Movement welcomed the announcement by Ireland, Norway, and Spain of recognizing the State of Palestine, urging countries around the world to follow in their footsteps and recognize the legitimate national rights of the Palestinian people, support their struggle for liberation and independence, and end the Israeli occupation.
In a statement issued today, the movement described this announcement as an "important step" on the path of establishing the Palestinians' right to their land and independent state with al-Quds as its capital.
A member of the political bureau of Hamas, Bassem Naim, praised this move and told AFP, "These successive recognitions are the direct result of this brave resistance and the legendary steadfastness of the Palestinian people."
He added that this would be a turning point in the international position on the Palestinian cause and would help put pressure on the Israeli occupation and its allies.
Naim also said that this move will encourage many countries around the world to recognize Palestine as an independent state, expressing appreciation for the political courage exhibited by these countries despite the immense pressure.
PLO welcomes this move as well
The Palestine Liberation Organization also welcomed this move as the Secretary-General of its Executive Committee Hussein al-Sheikh described it as a "historic moment".
Al-Sheikh stressed that the free world has emerged victorious for justice and rights after long decades of the Palestinian national struggle, suffering, occupation, racism, killing, and destruction imposed on Palestinians.
Ireland, Norway, Spain recognize Palestinian state, Irish PM says
Ireland announced that it recognizes the state of Palestine, as confirmed by Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris today, adding that he expects other countries to join Ireland, Spain, and Norway in the coming weeks.
At a press conference, Harris said, "Today, Ireland, Norway, and Spain are announcing that we recognize the state of Palestine," adding, "Each of us will now undertake whatever national steps are necessary to give effect to that decision."
"I'm confident that further countries will join us in taking this important step in the coming weeks."
He highlighted Ireland's role and history in this by saying, "Taking our place on the world stage and being recognized by others as having the right to be there was a matter of the highest importance for the founders of our state."
