This Wednesday saw three European nations formally announce their recognition of a Palestinian state — a momentous decision that elicited swift condemnation from Israel and commendation from Palestinians. Ireland, Norway and Spain’s declarations represent the latest diplomatic setback for Israel, which faces increasing international isolation and backlash following its deadly military actions in the Gaza Strip. This development also unfolds amidst a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with the UNRWA halting food distribution in Rafah due to supply shortages and safety concerns amid Israel’s ongoing military operations.

Ireland and Spain had previously hinted at their intentions to recognize Palestinian statehood, with Spanish Prime Minister Sánchez canvassing for support across Europe and the Middle East. Irish Prime Minister Harris, speaking at a press conference, emphasized the importance of being on the right side of history. Ireland’s historical parallels with the Palestinian struggle for independence under British rule further underscore their empathy for the cause. Standing alongside Harris, Irish Foreign Minister Micheál Martin stated that recognizing Palestinian statehood should encourage Israel to resume negotiations with the Palestinian Authority on equal footing.

Spain, Norway and Ireland announced that they will recognize a Palestinian state on May 28 and they urged other European states to follow their lead.

In Madrid, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated, “I want to make one thing clear: This recognition is not against anyone. It is not against the people of Israel, whom we appreciate, and certainly not against the Jews, an admirable people whose history is linked to Spain. Nor is it in favor of Hamas, as some far-right Vox deputies claim in an attempt to exploit this issue. The time has come to move from words to action.”

I want to make one thing clear: This recognition is not against anyone. It is not against the people of Israel, whom we appreciate, and certainly not against the Jews, an admirable people whose history is linked to Spain. Nor is it in favor of Hamas, as some far-right Vox deputies claim in an attempt to exploit this issue. The time has come to move from words to action. – Spain Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez

Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide announced that their country will recognize Palestine as a state starting May 28. The territorial boundaries between Palestine and Israel will be based on the borders from before June 4, 1967, when Israel captured the Gaza Strip from Egypt and the West Bank and East Jerusalem from Jordan during the Six Day War.

Before these announcements, over 140 of the U.N.’s 193 member states had acknowledged the statehood of Palestine, with none of the Group of Seven (G7) nations included in this group. The Group of Seven (G7), comprising Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, alongside the European Union and Australia, have consistently portrayed themselves as advocates for democracy and human rights worldwide. Nonetheless, their hesitancy or outright rejection to acknowledge the state of Palestine highlights a glaring hypocrisy that cannot be overlooked. Despite their vocal support for self-determination and liberty, these Western nations maintain a colonialist perspective towards Palestine, essentially depriving millions of Palestinians of their rightful claim to statehood.

Over 140 of the U.N.’s 193 member states had acknowledged the statehood of Palestine, with none of the Group of Seven (G7) nations included in this group. The G7, comprising Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, alongside the European Union and Australia, have consistently portrayed themselves as advocates for democracy and human rights worldwide. Nonetheless, their hesitancy or outright rejection to acknowledge the state of Palestine highlights a glaring hypocrisy that cannot be overlooked.

The origins of this contradiction lie in the colonial and imperial histories of these countries. European powers, for example, have a long-standing practice of drawing borders and exerting control over the Middle East, which continues to influence their foreign policies today. Likewise, the United States and Canada, born out of colonial expansion, have demonstrated a pattern of selectively backing independence movements, choosing to support certain ones while ignoring others depending on strategic considerations.

Australia, with its own background of colonialism and the displacement of indigenous populations, aligns itself with the Western bloc, thereby perpetuating similar double standards. The reluctance of these nations to recognize Palestine as a state goes beyond mere politics; it signifies a perpetuation of colonial mindsets that prioritize power dynamics over principles of justice and equality.

By refraining from recognizing Palestine, these nations essentially endorse the continuing atrocities inflicted upon the Palestinian population, such as genocide, ethnic cleansing, occupation and disenfranchisement. This position not only erodes their credibility as advocates for human rights but also strengthens a global hierarchy where power prevails over justice, perpetuating colonial mentalities beneath the facade of contemporary diplomacy. It is a poignant reminder that, for numerous Western powers, the principles of freedom and self-determination are selectively administered, deeply entrenched in historical narratives of dominance and control.

— Jamal I. Bittar is a professor at the University of Toledo.