In reply to skog:
> There isn't anything the UK can do that won't upset someone here, so we should take the most decent and honest stance on this - the one parliament voted for - and work from there.
> Surely having recognised both Israel and Palestine would be a better position to be in, one from which we'd be more credible when trying to help work towards peace? Hopefully Sweden's move will encourage more EU countries to do so.
The reason Palestine wasn't recognised was because the Palestinians didn't want it, and many (most?) still don't. The Jordanian Palestinian refugees can't see how their right of return has meaning if israel is recognised.
It doesn't make sense to support the recognition of Palestine whilst simultaneously de-legitimising Israel. From an Israeli POV that is always going to be seen as an act of aggression because it can only strengthen those who want Israel removed.
It's a tactical rather than a political solution, the question being whether Palestinian recognition strengthens Israel's hand , by encouraging the Palestinians or weakens it creating a body with an aggressive leadership.
It's a timely announcement as the PA spokesperson declares the closure of the Temple Mount an Act of War and Israel backs down within hours, demonstrating the continuing threat to peace and the weakness of Israel.