Israel Recalls Ambassadors After Ireland and Norway Recognize Palestinian State

Israel has recalled its ambassadors to Ireland and Norway following their recognition of a Palestinian state. Foreign Minister Israel Katz stated that these decisions undermine Israel's self-defense and efforts to rescue hostages taken by Hamas. Katz emphasized Israel's commitment to security and the return of hostages.

The Israeli foreign ministry said on Wednesday it had ordered an immediate recall of its ambassadors to Ireland and Norway in response to those nations' decisions to recognise a Palestinian state.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said the decision to recognise a Palestinian state undermined Israel's right to self-defence and efforts to return the 128 hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza. "Israel will not be silent," Katz said. "We are determined to achieve our goals: restoring security to our citizens and the removal of Hamas and the return of the hostages."

"There are no more righteous goals than these," Katz said.