Canada Australia Portugal and UK formally recognise Palestine

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Canada, Australia, Portugal, and the United Kingdom have officially recognised the State of Palestine as Israel continues to expand settlements in the West Bank and intensifies its military operations in Gaza. The announcements come amid rising international concern over the ongoing conflict, which has caused widespread destruction and thousands of casualties.

On Sunday, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that Canada now recognises the State of Palestine. He emphasised that this step is intended to support efforts for peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians. Carney also made it clear that recognising Palestine does not mean supporting terrorism in any way. He highlighted that the Palestinian Authority has made promises to Canada to reform its governance, hold general elections next year without Hamas participation, and work towards a demilitarised state.

Carney criticised the Israeli government, saying it is acting “methodically to prevent the prospect of a Palestinian state from ever being established.” He said Canada’s recognition is a move to empower those who seek peace and an end to violence in the region.

Following Canada, Australia also announced formal recognition of Palestinian statehood. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, together with Foreign Minister Penny Wong, explained that Australia’s decision is part of a broader international effort to support a two-state solution. They emphasised that the recognition aims to revive momentum for peace, beginning with a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages. The Australian government made it clear that Hamas must have no role in the governance of a Palestinian state.

Later on Sunday, Portugal joined the effort. Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel said that recognising Palestine is a key and consistent part of Portugal’s foreign policy. He stated that the recognition demonstrates Portugal’s commitment to international law and the rights of the Palestinian people.

The UK also announced its recognition of Palestine shortly after Canada and Australia. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said this step is intended to renew hope for peace and support a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians.

The moves by these major Western countries indicate growing international pressure on Israel, which has faced criticism for its ongoing military actions in Gaza, where tens of thousands of Palestinians have been killed or displaced. While Israel and the United States argue that recognising Palestine during the conflict would reward Hamas, international support for Palestinian statehood is increasing.

At the United Nations, more countries, including France, are expected to announce recognition of Palestine in the coming weeks. Currently, 147 of the 193 UN member states officially recognise the Palestinian state, although recognition does not yet grant Palestine an official UN seat. Approval from the UN Security Council, where the US has veto power, would be required for full membership.

Apart from recognition, several Western countries are considering or have already imposed sanctions on Israel in response to its actions in Gaza. Some European nations have even threatened to boycott events like the European Song Contest if Israel is allowed to participate.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the recognitions, calling them a “prize” for Hamas and reiterating that a Palestinian state will not be established. Netanyahu also acknowledged that Israel is facing increasing international isolation, which may require adjustments to the country’s economy and global strategy.

This development marks one of the largest coordinated efforts by Western countries to formally recognise Palestinian statehood in recent years. It signals a shift in global diplomatic attitudes and underscores the increasing international demand for peace in the Middle East.