In a historic shift in foreign policy, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia have officially recognized the State of Palestine, breaking ranks with the United States and signaling growing international support for Palestinian statehood.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the recognition Sunday, emphasizing the move as a step to revive the two-state solution and peace prospects for both Palestinians and Israelis. Starmer stated: ‘We are acting to keep alive the possibility of peace — a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable Palestinian state.’
Moments earlier, Canada became the first G7 nation to recognize Palestine, with Prime Minister Mark Carney pledging a ‘peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel.’ Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese followed, declaring recognition of ‘the independent and sovereign State of Palestine.’
But the announcement drew immediate condemnation from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who accused the Western allies of rewarding Hamas. Netanyahu said: ‘A Palestinian state will not be established west of the Jordan River. We will continue to fight this at the United Nations and in all other arenas.’ Israel’s Foreign Ministry echoed the criticism, saying the recognition ‘further destabilizes the region and undermines prospects for peace.’
Hamas, meanwhile, celebrated the decision, calling it a ‘rightful outcome of our people’s struggle and sacrifices.’ Yet analysts note the recognition is largely symbolic — granting Palestinians greater diplomatic standing but not altering conditions on the ground in Gaza or the occupied West Bank, where humanitarian crises and ongoing Israeli military operations persist.
The timing of this recognition comes amid intensified violence in Gaza. Local health authorities report more than 65,000 deaths since October 2023, including thousands of children. Overnight airstrikes by Israel killed at least 34 civilians in Gaza City, deepening the humanitarian emergency.
This move by the U.K., Canada, and Australia is expected to encourage other nations to follow suit. France is slated to announce formal recognition at a United Nations conference in New York on Monday, co-chaired with Saudi Arabia, while Portugal, Belgium, Luxembourg, and New Zealand are also expected to act soon.
Netanyahu’s government has criticized the decision, calling it a reward for Hamas and a setback for regional stability. Hostage advocacy groups have also condemned the move, warning that any recognition should be contingent upon the release of hostages still held by Hamas.
The creation of a Palestinian state, as recognized by these countries, refers to the West Bank and Gaza Strip, with East Jerusalem as its capital. However, Israeli occupation and recent settlement approvals continue to complicate the path toward Palestinian sovereignty.
Reporting by Carl Montel.
