On August 8, Israel announced the revocation of the diplomatic status of eight Norwegian representatives at its embassy, citing their involvement in relations with the Palestinian Authority.

The withdrawal of diplomatic status will take effect within seven days, marking a significant diplomatic shift.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz stated that Norway's recent recognition of the State of Palestine was a primary reason for this decision.

Katz criticized Norway for taking what he termed 'anti-Israeli and unilateral steps' and condemned their acknowledgment of a Palestinian state.

Norway's role as a significant donor to the Palestinian Authority makes this diplomatic revocation particularly painful for the country.

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide described Israel's actions as an 'extreme act' but reaffirmed Norway's friendship with Israel.

Eide warned of dangerous repercussions from Israel's decision and called for international support to uphold diplomatic norms.

Eide indicated that this decision would impact Norway's relationship with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, although specific consequences were not disclosed.

This diplomatic tension coincides with escalating violence in the region, including an Israeli airstrike on the al-Bureij refugee camp in Gaza that killed at least 15 people.

European Union diplomat Josep Borrell condemned Israel's actions, stating they contradict the Oslo Accords aimed at resolving the Middle East conflict.

The Palestinian Authority, established through the Oslo Accords in 1993, highlights Norway's longstanding role in Middle Eastern diplomacy.