The head of the EU foreign policy department, Josep Borrell, expressed optimism that the majority of European Union (EU) countries will extend recognition to Palestine before the end of May. Borrell conveyed this sentiment during a special conference held by the World Economic Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as reported by Al Arabiya news.

Borrell highlighted that EU members Spain, Ireland, Malta, and Slovenia are leading the way in this initiative. These nations had previously announced their intentions to recognize Palestine as an independent state in March of last year.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded to this news by condemning the potential recognition, labeling it as a "reward for terrorism." Netanyahu's statement underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict.

The backdrop to this diplomatic development is the recent escalation of violence between Israel and Hamas. Last October, Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in significant casualties among Israelis. In response, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) initiated a military operation in Gaza, leading to extensive casualties among Palestinians.

The prolonged conflict has exacerbated the humanitarian situation in Gaza, with shortages of essential resources such as food, water, and medicine. International organizations have raised concerns about the dire conditions in the region, urging for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

Against this backdrop, pressure has been mounting on Israel to pursue a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza and bring an end to the military operation. The potential recognition of Palestine by EU member states adds another dimension to the complex dynamics of the Israel-Palestine conflict, raising hopes for diplomatic progress amid ongoing challenges.