Britain, Canada, and Australia on Sunday formally recognised the State of Palestine, joining more than 140 countries worldwide that back the Palestinian aspiration for an independent homeland carved out of Israeli-occupied territories.
The coordinated move by three key Western allies of Israel reflects mounting frustration over the protracted Gaza war and is aimed at reviving hopes for a two-state solution.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the decision as a step toward restoring peace.
“Today, to revive the hope of peace for Palestinians and Israelis, and a two-state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine,” Starmer declared, condemning what he called Israel’s relentless bombardment of Gaza and worsening humanitarian crisis.
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney stressed that the recognition does not legitimise terrorism. “This in no way rewards Hamas but strengthens those committed to peaceful coexistence,” he said.
France and other nations are expected to follow suit during this week’s United Nations General Assembly session in New York.
Israel’s Strong Rebuttal
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blasted the move, saying it effectively rewarded terrorism following Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which killed 1,200 people and saw more than 250 taken hostage.
“You are giving a huge reward to terrorism,” Netanyahu said. “A Palestinian state will not be established west of the Jordan River.”
Israel’s campaign in Gaza, launched in retaliation, has since killed over 65,000 Palestinians according to local health authorities, displaced most of the enclave’s residents, and levelled much of its infrastructure.
Palestinians Hail Diplomatic Shift
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the recognition, saying it was a step toward realising a sovereign state that could live “side by side with Israel in security, peace, and good neighbourliness.”
Husam Zomlot, head of the Palestinian Mission in London, called it a historic moment:
“Today, the UK has said we must correct history, we must right the wrongs,” he said as the mission prepared to be upgraded to a full embassy.
Global Pressure Builds
Western governments have faced increasing domestic pressure to act, as images of famine, mass displacement, and destruction in Gaza dominate news cycles. In London, some residents saw the move as overdue.
“This is the first step in acknowledging that Palestinians have a right to a homeland,” said charity director Michael Angus.
However, critics argue the timing is premature. Mandy Damari, the mother of a released British-Israeli hostage, said Starmer was “rewarding Hamas” while the war continues and hostages remain in captivity.
Meanwhile, Israel’s far-right Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for the annexation of more West Bank territory and dismantling of the Palestinian Authority, moves that would escalate tensions further.
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