The call came after Ireland, Norway and Spain announced the official recognition of Palestine as an independent state.

Harris stated on behalf of his people that he recognizes Palestine to keep hopes alive for a peace solution with Israel, according to a statement from the Dublin government.

In turn, Abbas said that Ireland’s recognition of the State of Palestine is a beacon of hope for the Palestinian people, and thanked Ireland, Spain and Norway.

During the conversation, the two leaders discussed hopes for a lasting ceasefire and an end to the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

The announcements by the three European countries came as Israel continues its offensive on the Gaza Strip despite a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate cease of aggression.

Palestine has already been recognized by eight European nations: Bulgaria, Poland, the Czech Republic, Romania, Slovakia, Hungary, Sweden and the Greek Cypriot administration.

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