Denmark’s PM declines to recognize Palestinian state

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has stated that Denmark will not currently recognize a Palestinian state, despite discussions at a summit in Brussels where three EU countries argued recognition might advance the desired two-state solution between Israel and Palestine. Frederiksen highlighted that neither Hamas in Gaza nor Israel’s government is ready for a two-state solution. At the EU summit, Ireland, Spain, and Slovenia advocated for the recognition of a Palestinian state to gain momentum towards the said solution, with positive responses from other EU members. Nine EU countries already recognize Palestine as a state, and Ireland, Spain, Slovenia, and Malta plan to work towards recognition. Within Denmark, there’s ongoing debate, with parties such as the Red/Green Alliance, Green Left, The Alternative, and the Social Liberal Party proposing recognition of a Palestinian state. However, Frederiksen emphasized the Danish position focuses on working towards a two-state solution regardless of challenges.