In a dramatic turn in Western foreign policy, Britain, Australia, and Canada on Sunday formally recognised the State of Palestine, sparking swift condemnation from Israel. Portugal also announced it would follow suit later in the day, amid mounting international pressure over Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, which began nearly two years ago after the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in a statement on X, said the move was aimed at reviving hopes for peace and a two-state solution. “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,” he wrote.
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney echoed the sentiment, declaring: “Canada recognises the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel.” The three nations’ decisions mark a watershed moment, as Britain and Canada become the first G7 members to recognise Palestinian statehood. France and other countries are expected to take similar steps during the UN General Assembly opening this week in New York.
Israel, however, reacted angrily. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the move, saying it “endangers our existence and serves as an absurd reward for terrorism.” Israel has intensified its Gaza campaign against Hamas, which it has vowed to eradicate, despite widespread international criticism of the humanitarian toll. The conflict has already left over 65,000 Palestinians dead, mostly civilians, according to Gaza health authorities, alongside massive destruction and food shortages.
Public opinion has also played a role. In the UK, mass demonstrations have been held monthly demanding action, while a recent YouGov poll showed that two-thirds of Britons aged 18–25 support Palestinian statehood. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy acknowledged Britain’s historic responsibility, pointing to the 1917 Balfour Declaration that paved the way for Israel’s creation.
Palestinian leaders welcomed the recognition. Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin stressed that the move was far from symbolic, saying it “sends a very clear message to the Israelis on their illusions about continuing their occupation forever.”
With more than 140 of the UN’s 193 member states already recognising Palestine, the latest decisions add significant weight to calls for a two-state solution, even as tensions remain high.
