Ireland, Spain and Norway have announced that they will recognize a Palestinian state amid Israel's ongoing offensive in the Gaza Strip.

The prime ministers of the three European countries made the announcement separately on Wednesday.

Ireland's Simon Harris said, "Palestinians in Gaza are enduring the most appalling suffering, hardship and starvation."

He also said, "We believe that 'permanent peace' can only be secured 'upon the basis of the free will of a free people.'"

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Norway's Jonas Gahr Store announced similar moves.

The countries' recognition is expected to take effect on May 28.

With no end in sight to the fighting in Gaza, observers say the three European countries are taking concerted action to realize peace with Israel and Palestine coexisting as two states.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he will ensure that Gaza does not constitute a threat to Israel again, with the strip under Israel's full security control.

The Palestinian Authority says at least 140 countries have so far recognized the state of Palestine.

As other countries in Europe and elsewhere are reportedly taking steps toward recognition, international pressure on Israel is expected to intensify.