Denmark backtracks on recognizing Palestine, sets conditions

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Tuesday that her country does not reject the idea of recognizing a Palestinian state but tied the move to a clear condition: ensuring the state would be “democratic” and free from the influence of Hamas.

Her remarks come amid growing public pressure in Denmark and strong criticism she personally directed at 'Israeli' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling his policies in Gaza “unacceptable” and saying he has become “a problem in himself.”

Conditions for recognition

Frederiksen stressed at a press conference that recognition must serve the “right goal.”

Read more: Denmark: Netanyahu is now a problem

“We have always supported this. It is what we want, but it is obvious that we must make sure it will be a democratic state,” she said.

She underlined that the move must be part of a genuine two-state solution, adding: “It must come at a time when a two-state solution is actually on the table, when a permanent and democratic Palestinian state, independent of Hamas, can be ensured. And of course, it must include mutual recognition with Israel.”

Her comments follow mass demonstrations in Denmark in recent days, where thousands demanded an end to the war in Gaza and recognition of a Palestinian state.

Criticism of Netanyahu, support for 'Israel’s' security

The Danish leader has repeatedly voiced sharp criticism of Netanyahu’s government. Earlier this month, she told the newspaper Jyllands-Posten that his administration had “gone too far,” and she wrote on social media that “the continuation of Netanyahu’s violent policy in Gaza is unacceptable.”

At the same time, Frederiksen reaffirmed her support for 'Israel’s' right to eliminate “the threat posed by Hamas” since the October 7, 2023 attack.

Leveraging EU presidency

Frederiksen also revealed that Denmark intends to use its presidency of the European Union to increase pressure on 'Israel', though she acknowledged the challenge ahead.

“It will be difficult to rally the necessary support, but we will do our best,” she said.

The October 7 Hamas attack killed 1,219 people in 'Israel', mostly civilians. 'Israel’s' assault on Gaza has since killed at least 62,819 people, the majority civilians, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, and triggered a large-scale humanitarian crisis.