UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal Recognize State of Palestine

On September 21, 2025, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Portugal formally recognized the State of Palestine, marking a significant shift in international diplomacy concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This coordinated move aligns these nations with over 140 countries that have already acknowledged Palestinian statehood.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the recognition, stating it aims to "revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two-state solution." He condemned the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, describing the Israeli government's actions as "utterly intolerable."

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized that recognizing Palestine "empowers those who seek peaceful coexistence and the end of Hamas," clarifying that it "in no way legitimizes terrorism, nor is it any reward for it."

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted that the recognition is part of an international effort for a two-state solution, beginning with a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of captives held there.

Portuguese Foreign Affairs Minister Paulo Rangel confirmed the recognition, stating it aligns with Portugal's longstanding foreign policy and supports a two-state solution as the only path to a just and lasting peace.

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has persisted for decades, with key issues including borders, the status of Jerusalem, security concerns, and the rights of refugees. The two-state solution proposes the establishment of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel.

Prior to these announcements, over 140 of the 193 UN member states had recognized Palestinian statehood. However, many Western nations, including the U.S., had refrained from doing so, advocating for a negotiated settlement between Israel and the Palestinians.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the recognitions, stating that a Palestinian state "will not happen" and accusing the recognizing countries of giving a "huge reward to terror."

The U.S. has consistently opposed unilateral recognition of Palestinian statehood, maintaining that it should result from direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians.

This coordinated recognition by key Western nations signifies a potential shift in diplomatic stances, possibly influencing other countries to follow suit.

The recognitions may bolster Palestinian aspirations for statehood but could also heighten tensions with Israel, potentially impacting peace negotiations and regional stability.

The formal recognition of the State of Palestine by the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Portugal marks a pivotal moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, reflecting changing international perspectives and potentially reshaping future diplomatic engagements in the region.