The Swedish Left Party is urging the EU to recognize Palestine as a state, aiming to advance a two-state solution. A last-minute amendment by the party calls for EU member states to acknowledge Palestine, with the EU Parliament set to vote on a non-binding resolution regarding the conflict in Gaza. The proposal seeks to increase pressure on Israel and support UNRWA, while Sweden's past recognition of Palestine is highlighted as a point of national pride.
Left Party Pushes EU to Recognize Palestine as a State
Left Party Pushes EU to Recognize Palestine as a State
The Left Party wants all EU countries to recognize Palestine as a state. Through a strategic move, they are now forcing the EU Parliament to take a stand on the issue.
"It is a prerequisite for actually achieving a two-state solution," says Hanna Gedin (Left Party).
On Thursday, the EU Parliament will decide on a non-binding resolution concerning Israel's war in Gaza, focusing on three themes: the starvation in Gaza, Hamas's hostage-taking, and a two-state solution to the conflict.
The Left Party's parliamentarians have submitted a last-minute amendment urging states to recognize a Palestinian state.
"It is an important proposal and a prerequisite for actually achieving a two-state solution," Hanna Gedin (Left Party) tells Expressen.
Currently, ten of the EU's twenty-seven countries recognize a Palestinian state, and 148 countries worldwide have made the same decision.
Proud of Margot Wallström
France plans to change its stance to "yes," and Belgium will soon decide. Sweden made its decision in October 2014.
"I was really proud the day Margot Wallström ensured that Sweden recognized Palestine. That was my Sweden. Now I am ashamed of the government's handling," says Hanna Gedin.
If the left-wing motion passes, it means the parliament encourages all member states to say yes to a Palestinian state. This makes a huge difference, according to Hanna Gedin.
"It's not just about Gaza. Israel is gradually taking over more and more of the West Bank through its illegal occupation.
"Sweden's government blames that they can do nothing and that everything is in the EU's hands. But that's completely wrong. Other countries are acting here and now."
The amendment also includes demands for countries to maintain their support for the UN agency UNRWA and to receive patients from Gaza who need care.
"We are actually voting actively on the amendments. And we will vote on quite a few parts. The important thing is that the parliament increases pressure on the Israeli government. People are dying before our eyes. It's a human hell," says Hanna Gedin.