Arab League Welcomes Spain's Support for Palestinian State

Spain’s decision to recognize the Palestinian state reflects the strong relationship between Spaniards and Palestinians, the Arab League said Monday.

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“That approach indicated longstanding friendly ties between Spain and all the Arab countries," said League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit.

Due to U.S. administrative policies and (the) decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital last year, Palestine needs support from 'peace-loving powers' amid their 'legitimate peaceful struggle,'” the secretary said.

The Arab League, a regional organization composed of six Arab states, cheered the European nation’s show of support which Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell announced Thursday with a deadline for the European Union to make its decision.

Despite criticism from opponents in Spain, Borrell said that he will launch an “intensive” consultation process with his counterparts in Europe to set a timetable for achieving a common position on the issue.

According to the Palestinian Authority, 139 countries recognize Palestine as an independent state. The European Union has disagreements over a unilateral move of this kind. The EU official position supports a two-state solution, the details of which will be achieved through negotiations between the sides.

A delegation from the European Parliament tried to enter the Gaza Strip to learn more about the humanitarian situation in the territory but was banned from entering by Israel Wednesday. Israel has repeatedly denied the delegation access to visit the Strip since 2011, with the Palestinian parliament condeming the ban.