UK, Canada, and Australia Recognize State of Palestine Ahead of UN Summit

In a landmark diplomatic move, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia have officially recognized the State of Palestine. The announcements come just days before the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) summit in New York, where the Israel-Palestine conflict is expected to dominate discussions.

Canada was the first among the three to make the declaration, with Prime Minister Mark Carney stating on Sunday:

“Canada recognizes 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.”

Shortly afterward, Australia and the United Kingdom issued similar statements.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong emphasized the international effort behind the move:

“Australia's recognition of Palestine today, alongside Canada and the United Kingdom, is part of a coordinated global effort to renew momentum for a two-state solution, starting with a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 atrocities.”

 

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also released a video statement on social media:

“I state clearly, as Prime Minister of this great country, that the United Kingdom formally recognizes the State of Palestine,” adding that the decision is aimed at reviving hope for peace and a viable two-state solution.

 

Earlier this month, the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly passed a resolution supporting a two-state solution. The resolution was opposed by only a handful of countries, including the United States, Israel, and a few Pacific island nations such as Palau, Tonga, Micronesia, and Nauru.

Until now, the UN had largely focused on condemning the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and over 250 hostages being taken to Gaza.

Since then, Israel's military campaign in Gaza has led to catastrophic humanitarian consequences, with over 65,000 Palestinians reported dead, according to local health authorities. The escalating toll and humanitarian crisis have drawn growing international criticism and calls for an immediate ceasefire.

In response, several nations have taken steps to recognize Palestinian statehood, aligning with the growing global consensus. France and Belgium are reportedly expected to make similar announcements during the upcoming UNGA session.

Russia, which has recognized Palestine since the Soviet era, reaffirmed its support for a two-state solution, calling it the only viable path to ending the war in Gaza.

Source: RT