Palestinian ambassador presents credentials to King of Norway

In a historic move, the newly appointed Palestinian Ambassador to Norway, Marie Sedin, formally presented her credentials to His Majesty King Harald V at a ceremony in the Royal Palace this week, marking the official establishment of diplomatic relations between Norway and the State of Palestine.​

This ceremony coincided with Norway's formal recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state, a significant step amid Israel's continued brutal war on Gaza.

Norway's recognition will see the establishment of a full diplomatic mission in Oslo, representing what Norwegian officials described as a gesture of goodwill and a commitment to supporting Palestinian self-determination.​

With Norway's decision, 13 European countries have now formally recognised the State of Palestine. Globally, 148 of the United Nations' 193 member states have recognised Palestinian statehood.​

In the past year, several countries have joined Norway in recognising Palestine. In May 2024, Ireland and Spain announced their recognition of Palestine, followed by Slovenia. Additionally, Armenia recognised Palestine in June 2024.

In the Caribbean, Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and the Bahamas also recognised Palestine in 2024.​

Norwegian officials have consistently voiced support for a two-state solution, affirming the right of both Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security within their own sovereign states.​

Israel is currently facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over its actions in Gaza. Separately, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants in November 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, citing alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.​

Norway has made clear that it will comply with the ICC warrants, stating it would arrest Netanyahu and Gallant should they enter Norwegian territory, becoming the first European country to publicly make such a declaration.

Israel condemned Norway’s recognition of Palestine, recalling its ambassador from Oslo and accusing Norway of "rewarding terrorism". Israeli officials also restricted Norwegian diplomatic activities and barred Norway’s foreign minister from visiting.