On Sunday, Britain, Canada, and Australia officially recognized the Palestinian state. This action is perceived as both a criticism of Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza and an effort to compel it towards accepting a two-state resolution.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that his choice to align with other countries in acknowledging Palestinian statehood was driven by the goal “to preserve the prospect of peace and a two-state solution.”
In a video announcement of the recognition on Sunday, Starmer remarked, “As a result of Hamas’s actions, the Israeli government’s escalation of the conflict, and the rapid expansion of settlements in the West Bank, the hope for a two-state solution is diminishing. However, we must not allow that hope to be extinguished.”
This largely symbolic step places these nations in disagreement with the Trump Administration, which has consistently supported its staunch ally Israel and resisted any initiatives supporting Palestinian statehood.
Starmer had previously indicated in late July his intent to recognize a Palestinian state, but had conditioned this on Israel taking measures to alleviate the severe humanitarian situation in Gaza, agreeing to a ceasefire with Hamas, and seeking a peace agreement that granted Palestinians their own state.
The United Kingdom’s recognition carries significant weight, largely owing to its historical and prominent involvement in the establishment of Israel.
On Sunday, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney likewise declared his nation’s recognition.
He stated, “Canada acknowledges the State of Palestine and extends its partnership in fostering the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel.”
This seemingly coordinated initiative by the three countries precedes the United Nations General Assembly this week, an event where France and Portugal are also anticipated to recognize the State of Palestine.
Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin expressed approval of these declarations.
She commented, “This action advances us toward sovereignty and independence. While it may not conclude the conflict immediately, it represents a step forward that we must develop and magnify.”
Israel’s foreign ministry characterized the action as “merely a reward for jihadist Hamas.”
In a post on X, it asserted, “This declaration does not advance peace; instead, it further destabilizes the region and diminishes the prospects for a peaceful resolution in the future.”
This situation is still unfolding.