HISTORIC SHIFT: Spain Joins Growing European Bloc in Recognizing Palestine
MADRID — In a move that has further strained the “transatlantic rift” during the ongoing Middle East conflict, the Spanish government officially recognized Palestine as a state on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. While the recognition has been in place for nearly two years, it remains a cornerstone of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s foreign policy, which he describes as a “matter of historical justice” and the only viable path to regional peace.
Spain’s decision was part of a coordinated effort with Ireland and Norway, followed shortly by Slovenia, marking the first time major Western European nations broke ranks with the U.S. and Israel on the issue of statehood during the current crisis.
The “Sánchez Doctrine” (March 25, 2026)
The official recognition is not merely symbolic; it carries significant legal and diplomatic weight that continues to influence the “Second Iran War” today:
- 1967 Borders: Spain recognizes a viable Palestinian state encompassing the West Bank and Gaza, connected by a corridor, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
- Diplomatic Status: Since the May 2024 decree, the Palestinian mission in Madrid has enjoyed full embassy status.
- The “Litani” Contrast: Spain’s stance stands in sharp contrast to Israel’s current plan to occupy southern Lebanon. While Israel seeks “security zones,” Madrid continues to advocate for a “two-state solution” based on international law.
A Growing Coalition: The 157 Club
As of late 2025, the number of countries recognizing Palestine has surged to 157 out of 193 UN member states (roughly 81%).
| Recent Key Recognitions | Date | Context |
| Spain, Ireland, Norway | May 28, 2024 | Coordinated European “triple play.” |
| Slovenia | June 4, 2024 | Followed the Spanish lead. |
| Mexico | March 20, 2025 | Major Latin American shift. |
| Canada, UK, France | September 2025 | A “historic shift” by G7 members (excluding the U.S.). |
The “Transatlantic Rupture”
The Spanish recognition continues to be a point of friction with the Trump administration. While President Trump has focused on “Inner Circle” diplomacy with Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, Sánchez has used Spain’s position to rally the EU toward a more independent “Middle East strategy.”
The Current Conflict (March 25, 2026):
- German Dissent: Earlier today, Iran praised German President Steinmeier for his “rare truth” in calling the current war illegal—a sentiment that mirrors Sánchez’s long-standing critique.
- Canada’s Stance: Canada joined Spain today in “strongly condemning” Israel’s plans for a permanent occupation in Lebanon, signaling that the “G7 consensus” on Israeli security is fraying.
What’s Next?
As delegations arrive in Islamabad for the Thursday, March 26 summit, Spain is expected to use its “statehood” leverage to push for a peace deal that includes a clear “political horizon” for Palestinians. If the Friday, March 27 deadline passes without a deal, Madrid may lead a European push for further sanctions against any parties viewed as “obstructing the peace.”