World Powers Recognize Palestine as a State: UK, Canada, Australia, and Others Break U.S.-Israel Stance Amid Escalating Conflict

Four nations – Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and several others – declared their intent to formally acknowledge Palestine as a sovereign state on Sunday, a move that has historically been met with opposition from the United States and Israel.

In a speech on the same day, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated, “Seventy-five years ago, we recognized Israel as a homeland for the Jewish people. Today, we join over 150 other nations in recognizing Palestine as well. This pledge is extended to both Palestinian and Israeli citizens, envisioning a brighter future.”

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney added that this recognition bolsters those who advocate for peaceful coexistence and the dismantling of Hamas. He emphasized that this move does not legitimize terrorism or serve as a reward for it, and reaffirmed Canada’s unwavering support for Israel, its people, and their security, achievable only through a comprehensive two-state solution.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the establishment of diplomatic relations and the opening of embassies will be considered as the Palestinian Authority demonstrates progress in reform efforts. He noted that ongoing international collaborations are working towards a credible peace plan aimed at rebuilding Gaza, strengthening the state of Palestine, and securing Israel.

The decision by U.S. allies comes after Prime Minister Starmer’s meeting with President Trump last week, during which Trump expressed a desire to end the conflict in Gaza but opposed plans to recognize Palestine as a state.

Following their meeting, Trump stated, “I hold a differing viewpoint from the prime minister on this matter.”

On Tuesday, world leaders will convene for the UN General Assembly, with France and other nations anticipated to formally acknowledge Palestine as a state in the near future. Currently, more than 140 of the 193 UN member states recognize Palestine as a sovereign entity.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced in July that France would make this declaration during the assembly, citing that recognizing both Israel and Palestine contributes to regional security.

Portugal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also announced on Friday its intention to formally acknowledge Palestine as a state.

Palestinian officials welcomed the news of international recognition. President Mahmoud Abbas underscored in multiple statements that this action helps advance the path towards a two-state solution and allows Palestine to exist harmoniously alongside Israel, ensuring peace, security, and good relations between neighbors.

Reactions among Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank were varied. Sara Mohammed, a 20-year-old computer engineering student, expressed a desire for tangible action rather than merely words. “We seek voices that can bring about change, not just talk and then move on,” she said.

The current atmosphere in the region, marked by over 1,200 Israeli-controlled checkpoints and gates, making travel extremely difficult, stands in stark contrast to the celebrations that erupted in 2012 when the UN elevated Palestine to observer state status.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the international recognition, declaring on Sunday via a statement that “there will be no Palestinian state west of the Jordan River.” He added, “To those leaders recognizing a Palestinian state following the horrific events of October 7, you are rewarding terrorism. The response to this latest attempt to impose a terrorist state within our borders will be addressed upon my return from the United States.”

As the announcements were made, Israel launched an attack on Gaza City, resulting in over 40 casualties according to The Associated Press. NPR’s Carrie Kahn contributed to this report.