Norway’s diplomatic office in Al Ram closed indefinitely after Netanyahu’s directive

Norway’s representation office in Al Ram in the West Bank has been closed indefinitely since midnight on Friday. This decision is a direct consequence of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s directive that Norwegian diplomats can no longer hold diplomatic status in Palestine, as confirmed by Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

The office had effectively functioned as Norway’s embassy to the Palestinian territories for over 30 years. The West Bank remains occupied by Israel, and Norwegian diplomats operated with Israeli consent, which was rescinded on August 8. Eide highlighted that this does not mean they have been asked to leave Israel; rather, they have been barred from operating in Palestinian territories.

The International Court of Justice has clearly stated that Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem is illegal and violates international law. Through the Al Ram office, Norway has actively pursued a two-state solution and supported Palestinian institution-building. Eide described the expulsion of Norwegian diplomats as “extreme and unreasonable,” suggesting that the decision seeks to undermine Palestinians and the Palestinian Authority.

Despite these developments, Norway intends to continue its support for the Palestinian leadership and people. Eide emphasized that the reaction from Netanyahu’s government only inspires him to advocate for a Palestinian state. He linked the diplomatic status withdrawal to a letter Norwegian officials sent last week, indicating that Norway, as a party to the Oslo Accords, supported the International Criminal Court’s jurisdiction over actions concerning Hamas leaders and the Israeli government.

Eide reiterated Norway’s strong condemnation of the October 7 terror attacks by Hamas and affirmed their call for the immediate release of hostages and urgent need for a ceasefire. He recently spoke with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa about continuing their collaboration.