LONDON : The United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and Prtugal on Sunday formally recognised Palestine as a sovereign and independent state, marking a historic shift in foreign policy ahead of the United Nations General Assembly.The coordinated move places the four nations of the West, which has traditionally allied with Israel, among more than 140 UN member states that have extended recognition, despite strong opposition from Israel and the United States.
Britain’s decision carried particular symbolism given its major role in Israel’s creation as a modern nation in the aftermath of World War Two.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney all issued statements on Sunday confirming their governments’ decisions. Each emphasised that recognition was tied to commitments from the Palestinian Authority, including democratic reforms, elections scheduled for 2026, and the exclusion of Hamas from future governance.
“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,” said Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
“The man-made humanitarian crisis in Gaza reaches new depths. The Israeli government’s relentless and increasing bombardment of Gaza, the offensive of recent weeks, the starvation and devastation are utterly intolerable.”Other nations, including France, are expected to follow suit this week at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Carney said Canada’s recognition reflects the country’s view that a two-state solution remains “the only viable path” to peace. He added that Canada had received direct commitments from the Palestinian Authority on reforms to governance, security and demilitarisation. Ottawa becomes the first G7 nation to extend recognition.
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