‘Norway is and will always be a friend of Israel and the Israeli people. At the same time, Norway has been clear in its criticism of the occupation, the way in which the war in Gaza has been conducted and the suffering this has caused the Palestinian civilian population’, said Eide.

‘Today’s decision will have consequences for our relationship with the Netanyahu government. We are now considering what measures Norway will take to respond to the situation that the Netanyahu government has now created’, said Eide.

‘It is important for all states that diplomatic channels are open and well-functioning, especially when the situation in the region is as serious as it is now. Obstructing diplomats in their work is serious’, said Eide.

‘Regardless of this decision, Norway’s main priority is to work for peace and a diplomatic solution to the conflicts in the Middle East,’ said Eide.