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British, Canadian, and Australian leaders all announced the recognition of a Palestinian state on Sunday, driven by frustration over the Gaza conflict and aiming to promote a two-state resolution. However, this move is expected to provoke anger from Israel and its primary supporter, the United States.
This decision places these countries alongside approximately 140 other nations that support Palestinian aspirations for an independent homeland beyond Israeli-occupied lands.
Prime Minister Starmer stated, “Today, to foster hope for peace between Palestinians and Israelis and to support a two-state solution, the United Kingdom officially recognizes the State of Palestine.” Both Canada and Australia also confirmed their recognition of Palestine today, with additional countries anticipated to follow during this week’s United Nations General Assembly session in New York.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada now recognizes Palestine, emphasizing, “Canada recognizes the State of Palestine and stands ready to work together toward a peaceful future for both Palestine and Israel.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese noted that recognizing Palestine is part of an effort to re-energize negotiations for a two-state solution, which begins with a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.
In July, Britain issued Israel an ultimatum, stating that unless Israel took measures to end the dire situation in Gaza, it would recognize a Palestinian state. This stance put Starmer at odds with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Husam Zomlot, head of Palestine’s London mission, described the recognition as a “long-overdue acknowledgment” that fulfills Britain’s responsibility. He added, “This marks an irreversible step toward justice, peace, and righting historic wrongs.”
Starmer had previously set conditions for recognition, including a ceasefire with Hamas, increased aid into Gaza, no annexation of the West Bank, and a commitment to a peace process leading to a two-state outcome. However, since that declaration, the situation has worsened, with Israel advancing settlement plans and the assault on Gaza continuing, leading many lawmakers to criticize the move amid rising civilian suffering.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that a Palestinian state will never be established. Public opinion in London remains divided. Some see recognition as a necessary acknowledgment of Palestinians’ right to a homeland, while others believe it could undermine Israel or support militant groups like Hamas.
Historian Victor Kattan argued that Britain’s recognition should be accompanied by an apology and reparations, citing historic responsibilities dating back to the 1917 Balfour Declaration. This acknowledgment could lead to upgrades in the Palestinian mission’s status in London and possibly restrictions on products from Israeli settlements.
Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin emphasized that recognition is a vital step toward Palestinian sovereignty, bringing the goal of independence closer. “This is not the end but a significant move forward,” she said, amid ongoing conflicts and military campaigns in Gaza.
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