Palestinian state

Ireland to recognise Palestinian state by end May, foreign minister says

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Ireland to recognise Palestinian state by end May, foreign minister says

Ireland will recognize a Palestinian state before the end of the month, as part of a joint effort with other European Union members. The decision is based on the belief that a two-state solution is crucial for lasting peace in the region. This move comes amid escalating violence in Gaza, with calls for a ceasefire and a lasting peace solution. Israel has criticized the recognition plan, calling it a “prize for terrorism.”

Slovenia to recognise Palestinian state by mid-June

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Slovenia to recognise Palestinian state by mid-June

The Slovenian government has initiated the procedure for the recognition of a Palestinian state as a way to help end the conflict in Gaza. This decision was made to encourage negotiations and speed up dialogue in the United Nations for a ceasefire and a two-state solution. Other European Union member states are also considering recognizing a Palestinian state, with Slovenia aiming to complete the recognition process by June 13 at the latest. Israel has criticized this move, calling it a “prize for terrorism” that could hinder peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Jordan’s King Abdullah presses Biden to avert Israel offensive in Rafah

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Jordan’s King Abdullah presses Biden to avert Israel offensive in Rafah

Jordan’s King Abdullah warned U.S. President Joe Biden that an Israeli offensive in Rafah could lead to a new massacre of Palestinian civilians and urged urgent international action. Israel carried out airstrikes in Rafah, prompting concerns about a regional conflict. Biden pressed Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu not to proceed with a large-scale military offensive in Rafah without a plan to protect civilians. The leaders discussed the need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. Jordan and other Arab states have been critical of Israel’s actions and have been calling for a ceasefire.

Ino Afentouli: Cyprus’ solidarity towards Israel should not stop

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Ino Afentouli: Cyprus’ solidarity towards Israel should not stop

Last week, the world saw Iran’s attack on Israel amidst ongoing tensions in the Gaza Strip, highlighting the thin line between tension and conflict in the Middle East. Ino Afentouli, from Panteion University, emphasized that a regional conflict involving Iran and Israel would have adverse consequences for Cyprus and Greece. The conflict has halted economic cooperation and development plans in the region. Afentouli also mentioned that Cyprus could face increased migrant flows similar to those seen during the war in Syria. She emphasized the importance of solidarity with Israel for Cyprus and Greece, despite supporting the rights of the Palestinian people. The conflict could have significant impacts on Europe’s security and stability.

UN committee unable to agree on Palestinian bid for full membership

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UN committee unable to agree on Palestinian bid for full membership

The United Nations Security Council committee did not reach a unanimous recommendation on the Palestinian Authority’s application to become a full U.N. member. The Palestinian Authority is expected to push for a vote on the draft resolution recommending its full membership. This move would effectively recognize a Palestinian state, which is currently a non-member observer state. The U.S. has stated that an independent Palestinian state should be established through direct negotiations, not at the United Nations. The Security Council committee was unable to agree on whether the Palestinian application met all the criteria for membership.

California university cancels Muslim valedictorian’s speech, citing safety concerns

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California university cancels Muslim valedictorian’s speech, citing safety concerns

The University of Southern California canceled the valedictorian speech of Muslim student Asna Tabassum due to safety concerns and tensions surrounding the Middle East conflict. USC Provost Andrew Guzman stated that the decision was made to protect campus security, as discussions about the valedictorian selection had become alarming. Tabassum challenged the university’s rationale, questioning if the decision was solely based on safety. USC faced opposition from groups like Trojans for Israel and We Are Tov, who called for Tabassum’s removal as commencement speaker, citing her social media profile and past views on Palestine and Israel. Tabassum’s invitation to speak was withdrawn without USC reviewing her speech, leading to criticism and calls for her reinstatement from groups like the Council on American Islamic Relations.

Putin tells the Middle East to pull back from a catastrophic clash

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Putin tells the Middle East to pull back from a catastrophic clash

Russian President Vladimir Putin urged all sides in the Middle East to avoid actions that could lead to a new confrontation with catastrophic consequences for the region. Putin spoke to Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi about Iran’s retaliatory measures against Israel and emphasized the need for restraint to prevent further escalation. The root cause of instability in the Middle East was attributed to the unresolved conflict between Palestinians and Israel. Both leaders confirmed their support for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a political settlement of the crisis. Iran has provided Russia with powerful missiles and drones used in Ukraine.

Spanish PM to lobby EU partners for Palestinian state recognition

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Spanish PM to lobby EU partners for Palestinian state recognition

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is meeting with several EU counterparts to seek support for recognizing a Palestinian state. He aims to address the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza and push for a two-state solution. Spain, Ireland, Malta, and Slovenia are working together towards Palestinian state recognition, despite Israel’s opposition. Sanchez will visit Oslo and Dublin to discuss this issue with Norway and Ireland’s leaders.