For decades, the dream of an independent Palestinian state has hinged on political momentum and global solidarity. On Sunday, that momentum surged as Britain, Canada, Australia—and Portugal—formally recognized the State of Palestine, a move welcomed by the Arab League as a “correction of a historical error.”
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul-Gheit took to X to celebrate the landmark decisions, noting they reflect citizens’ demands “to support the Palestinian right to independence and to live with dignity.” He added: “We anticipate more impactful international recognitions soon.”
Earlier, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the UK “formally recognizes the State of Palestine,” calling for a renewed focus on a two-state solution. In Canberra, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong echoed similar sentiments: “Australia recognizes the legitimate and long-held aspirations of the people of Palestine to a state of their own.”
Ottawa joined the wave of acknowledgments shortly after, with Prime Minister Mark Carney confirming Canada’s recognition. Across the Atlantic, Portugal’s Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel declared: “Today, the Portuguese State officially recognizes the State of Palestine,” stressing that a two-state solution remains the “only path to peace.” He also urged for a ceasefire and the opening of borders to ensure vital humanitarian aid can reach civilians.
The announcements arrived on the eve of a High-Level Conference on the two-state solution at UN headquarters in New York, co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia, underscoring a push for concrete progress ahead of the gathering.
Responses have been swift and polarized. In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the moves as “a huge reward to terrorism” and insisted “there will not be a Palestinian state west of the Jordan River.” Meanwhile, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas described the recognitions as “an important and necessary step toward achieving a just and lasting peace in accordance with international legitimacy.”
With four nations stepping forward in less than 24 hours, momentum appears to be gathering. The world now watches to see whether this wave of recognition will translate into renewed negotiations and tangible steps toward peace—or if entrenched divisions will stall the process once again.
Reference(s):
Arab League welcomes recognition of Palestine by UK, Canada, Australia
cgtn.com
