Spain, Ireland, Norway: these three European countries have recognized the Palestinian state since this week. In total, at the UN, there are now 146 out of 193. Israel counterattacks and announces retaliatory measures against Madrid. From Saturday June 1, the Spanish consulate in Jerusalem will no longer be able, in theory, to issue visas to Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. Why is Spain the only one to be targeted by these measures, unlike Ireland and Norway?
1 min
With our correspondent in Jerusalem, Sami Boukhelifa
The Israeli strategy consists of two points, explains a European diplomatic source: “ Divide and deter “. Although having simultaneously recognized the State of Palestine, Norway and Ireland are therefore spared. Israeli wrath falls only onSpain.
“ The Hebrew State chose to hit the one that appears the most », Continues this same source. In addition to now officially recognizing Palestine, Madrid openly criticizes Israeland firmly condemns its murderous war Gaza. The Spanish Deputy Prime Minister even went further by taking up the slogan “ Free Palestine from the river to the sea “.
The Israelis are crying foul. “ It is a call for the elimination of Israel », they denounce. So, the Jewish state decided to crack down. Collective punishment: Spain can no longer process visa applications from Palestinians in the West Bank. Territory illegally occupied and controlled by the Israeli army. Madrid rejects any “ restriction » and asks the Israelis to reconsider their decision.
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