Countries Formally Recognize Palestine as a State

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney convened ahead of the G7 summit in Ottawa, where they expressed support for Palestine.

In a significant diplomatic development, Canada, the U.K., Australia, and several other nations on Sunday announced their formal recognition of Palestine as a state—a move long resisted by the U.S. and Israel. This decision has sparked extensive dialogue surrounding international relations and the ongoing quest for peace in the region.

Statements from World Leaders

“We recognized the State of Israel more than 75 years ago as a homeland for the Jewish people. Today we join over 150 countries who recognize a Palestinian State also,” stated U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Similarly, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized that recognizing Palestine “empowers those who seek peaceful coexistence and the end of Hamas.”

This recognition aligns with ongoing efforts to establish diplomatic relations, with various nations considering the establishment of embassies as the Palestinian Authority continues its reform initiatives.

International Reactions

On the global stage, reactions have ranged from praise to criticism. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the recognition, stating it paves the way for a future where Palestine can coexist with Israel in peace.

In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the declarations, insisting that “there will be no Palestinian state west of the Jordan,” and labeling the decision a reward for terrorism amid ongoing conflict.

The Path Ahead

As world leaders gather for the upcoming UN General Assembly, additional countries, including France and Portugal, are expected to announce their recognition of Palestine as a state. More than 140 of the 193 UN member states already recognize Palestinian statehood, signifying a shifting landscape in international diplomacy.

French President Emmanuel Macron has previously indicated that this recognition aims to enhance regional security for all parties involved.

Conclusion

The formal recognition of Palestine by several countries represents a pivotal moment in international relations. As discussions surrounding peace and coexistence continue, the global community watches closely for the implications of this decision on future diplomatic efforts.