Ireland will officially recognize Palestine as a state by the end of this month, potentially sooner than the originally anticipated date of May 21, according to Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin.
Speaking to Newstalk radio, Martin mentioned that the exact date is still being decided as Ireland coordinates with other countries on a possible joint declaration.
This decision aligns with efforts from several European Union (EU) countries, including Spain, Slovenia, and Malta, which support the recognition as part of their commitment to a two-state solution aimed at achieving lasting peace in the Middle East.
Martin emphasized that the recognition aims to support Palestinian self-determination and is in line with the Arab peace initiative.
This move comes amid increasing international calls for a ceasefire and a durable peace solution in the region, prompted by escalating violence in Gaza.
In the same vein, the Slovenian government took a definitive step toward recognizing the state of Palestine, marking a significant move in Slovenia’s foreign policy aimed at promoting peace in the Middle East and supporting a two-state solution.
Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon expressed a strong desire for the process to be expedited during her interaction with the media.
The decision to recognize Palestine is now set to be forwarded to the State Assembly for approval within the next month.
“This is a decisive, irreversible step,” Fajon affirmed, underscoring the commitment to move forward.