Beyond symbolic recognition: Real steps for peace in the Middle East

Spain, Ireland and Norway officially recognised a Palestinian state on Tuesday.

Madrid, Dublin and Oslo said they sought to accelerate efforts to secure a ceasefire in Israel's war with Hamas in Gaza.

"It's the only way of advancing toward what everyone recognises as the only possible solution to achieve a peaceful future, one of a Palestinian state that lives side by side with the Israeli state in peace and security," Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said in a televised address.

143 countries have long recognized the State of Palestine. Has this contributed to establishing peace between Israelis and Palestinians? Obviously not.

The decision by these three countries is pure political marketing, far from the realities on the ground. To achieve peace, the following conditions must be met:

Eradicate Terrorist Organizations: Eliminate terrorist organizations from Gaza and the West Bank.

Return of Israeli Hostages: Secure the return of Israeli hostages captured by Hamas on October 7th.

International Management of Gaza: Assign the management of Gaza to an international force comprising Arab countries, Israel, and members of the Palestinian Authority.

Second Step

Restart direct discussions between Israelis and Palestinians with a restructured Authority in Ramallah. The current Palestinian leadership is aging and corrupt.

This is the only solution. The approach advocated by Spain, Ireland, and Norway is illusory.