Britain, Canada, and Australia have formally recognised the State of Palestine, marking a historic break in Western foreign policy.
Portugal said it would also announce recognition later Sunday. The move comes as Israel faces growing global pressure over its Gaza war.
The conflict began almost two years ago after Hamas launched its October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel.
“Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two-state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine,” UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a statement on X.
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney wrote: “Canada recognises the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel.”
These decisions make Britain and Canada the first G7 countries to take such a step. France and other allies may follow at the UN General Assembly, which opens Monday in New York.
Israel’s Strong Opposition
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reacted with fury, saying calls for Palestinian statehood “would endanger our existence and serve as an absurd reward for terrorism.”
Israel has vowed to crush Hamas and has intensified its Gaza offensive. Entire neighbourhoods have been reduced to rubble, with food shortages worsening a humanitarian crisis condemned worldwide.
The Gaza health ministry says at least 65,208 people have been killed, mostly civilians. The UN considers these figures reliable.
Inside Britain, the Labour government has faced intense pressure from the public. Thousands join rallies each month, demanding stronger action.
A YouGov poll last week showed two-thirds of Britons aged 18 to 25 back Palestinian statehood.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy reminded the UN in July: “Britain bears a special burden of responsibility to support the two-state solution.”
The UK’s role in the 1917 Balfour Declaration that helped create Israel continues to weigh on its foreign policy today.
Palestinians Respond
Palestinian foreign minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin told AFP: “Recognition is not symbolic. It sends a very clear message to the Israelis on their illusions about continuing their occupation forever.”
Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority has urged world powers to use recognition to push for a genuine peace deal.
Three-quarters of UN members already recognise Palestine, with more than 140 of 193 nations having done so.
Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa explained his government’s position: “By acting now, as the Portuguese government has decided, we’re keeping alive the possibility of having two states.”
With the UN Assembly opening in New York this week, the pressure on Israel and its allies is set to intensify.
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