France deeply concerned over Israeli decision to revoke status of Norwegian diplomats

By Nur Asena Erturk

France is deeply concerned over Israel’s decision to withdraw the diplomatic status of the Norwegian diplomats, according to an official statement.

The French Foreign Ministry in a statement on Monday described the decision as “regrettable” given that Norway “has worked tireless toward” a two-state solution “for decades.”

“France reiterates that only a two-state solution with both states living side by side in peace and security can guarantee a lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians,” the statement added.

Norway and Israel have been at odds for months over Oslo's decision to recognize Palestine as a state, a move that drew sharp rebuke from Tel Aviv, which responded with a series of measures against the Nordic country and Palestinians.

Most recently, Israel rescinded the accreditation of Norwegian diplomats dealing with the Palestinian Authority, over the decision in late May, also reportedly withdrawing and cancelling some bank deposits in Norwegian accounts.

Last May, Norway joined Spain and Ireland in recognizing Palestine as a state. Slovenia and Armenia followed suit in June.

The recognitions have angered Israel, which vowed to take measures against these countries.

Norway has a representative office in the West Bank city of Ramallah. Its diplomats, however, must pass through Israeli checkpoints in the West Bank to reach there.