London: In a dramatic diplomatic shift, Britain, Canada, Australia and Portugal formally recognised a Palestinian state on Sunday, aligning themselves with more than 140 countries worldwide that support Palestinian aspirations for independence.
The coordinated move, driven by frustration over the ongoing Gaza war, was framed as a step toward reviving hopes for a two‑state solution. Leaders of the four nations said the recognition was intended to pressure both sides toward peace and to respond to the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the decision as historic, noting the UK’s role in Israel’s creation after World War Two. “Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two‑state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine,” he said. He condemned the devastation in Gaza, calling the bombardment, starvation and destruction “utterly intolerable.”
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney echoed the sentiment, insisting the recognition was not a reward for violence but a way to empower those seeking peaceful coexistence. “This in no way legitimises terrorism, nor is it any reward for it,” he said.
The announcement drew an immediate and angry response from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who accused the four nations of rewarding terrorism. Referring to the Hamas‑led attack of October 7, 2023, which killed 1,200 people and saw more than 250 taken hostage, Netanyahu declared: “A Palestinian state will not be established west of the Jordan River.”
Israel’s subsequent military campaign in Gaza has killed more than 65,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities, displaced most of the population, and left widespread famine and destruction.
The recognition decision comes amid mounting pressure on Western governments from their own citizens, many of whom have been outraged by the rising civilian death toll and images of starving children. Critics have accused their leaders of failing to rein in Israel while continuing to supply arms.
Reactions on the streets of London reflected the divide. “This is the first step in acknowledging that Palestinians have a right to a home,” said charity director Michael Angus, 56. But others, including families of Israeli hostages, condemned the move as premature and dangerous. Mandy Damari, mother of a released British‑Israeli hostage, said Starmer was “under a two‑state delusion” while Hamas remained in power in Gaza.
At the Palestinian Mission in London, which may now be upgraded to an embassy, staff and supporters celebrated the announcement with smiles and embraces. Mission head Husam Zomlot watched the recognition speech live on his phone, calling it a moment of long‑awaited validation.
Other European nations, including France, are expected to follow suit this week during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, potentially deepening the diplomatic rift with Israel and reshaping the international debate over the conflict.
+ There are no comments
Add yours