UK, Canada and Australia formally recognise Palestinian state
The United Kingdom, Canada and Australia have officially recognised Palestine as a sovereign state, in a move timed just days before the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the decision in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating the recognition is intended “to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two-state solution.”
Starmer had earlier signalled this intention in late July, stating that the UK would recognise Palestinian statehood in September, contingent on Israel meeting certain conditions. These included ending violence in Gaza, allowing unfettered humanitarian access, rejecting annexation of the West Bank, and committing to a sustainable peace process. When those conditions were not met, Starmer followed through on the recognition.
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The recognition ceremony permits the UK to accept Palestinian state representatives with greater diplomatic status, including formally recognising Husam Zomlot as ambassador.
Prime Minister Mark Carney of Canada and Anthony Albanese of Australia also made parallel declarations, affirming their nations’ support for Palestinian statehood.
Israel and its Foreign Ministry reacted sharply to the decision. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the recognition as “absurd,” arguing it rewards terrorism and undermines Israel’s security.
Similarly, the United States expressed concern. U.S. officials stated that recognising Palestine without a negotiated peace undermines the broader effort to resolve the conflict diplomatically.
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Supporters of recognition, including the Palestinian Authority, welcomed the move as long overdue and irreversible. “It brings independence and sovereignty closer,” said Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahi, while others argued that recognition sends a message that the international community will no longer accept ongoing occupation, settlement expansion, and blockade without consequence.
Critics of the recognition caution that it may risk escalating diplomatic tensions and complicating aid delivery, especially as Israel continues military operations in Gaza. They argue that symbolism must be matched with tangible policy shifts in international law, settlement policy, and humanitarian access.
The recognition is expected to spark further similar declarations by other European and Commonwealth nations during the upcoming UN General Assembly. Observers say this could lead to stronger multilateral pressure on Israel to address humanitarian concerns and commit to structural changes.
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