With the latest wave of recognitions, more than 150 out of 193 UN member states now officially acknowledge the State of Palestine. This growing consensus was reinforced in recent days by a historic move from the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia—nations whose heavy political weight and influence on global affairs signal a decisive shift toward justice, peace, and international stability.
This momentum follows the overwhelming adoption of the New York Declaration at the UN General Assembly recently—a joint Saudi-French initiative that lays out concrete, time-bound, and irreversible steps toward achieving a two-state solution. Together, these developments mark a ratification of long-denied rights and a correction of wrong historical stands that for over seven decades have inflicted immense suffering on the Palestinian people.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s words underscored the gravity of the moment: “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.” Similar affirmations came from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who together announced coordinated recognition as a pathway to renewed peace negotiations—beginning with a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of detainees.
For Britain and France—two countries historically instrumental in establishing Israel, even assisting its nuclear armament, and providing it with a political shield—this moment marks not only a policy reversal but also a moral reckoning. By aligning with the overwhelming majority of the international community, they are choosing to stand on the right side of history.
These recognitions come against the backdrop of the ongoing genocide in Gaza, rising violence in the West Bank, and decades of stalled negotiations. They represent not only solidarity with the Palestinian struggle but also a clear acknowledgment that peace in the Middle East—and stability in the world—cannot be achieved without justice for Palestine.
By joining the ranks of nations that affirm Palestinian statehood, the UK, Canada, and Australia, Portugal, Malta are sending a powerful diplomatic message: the era of turning a blind eye to occupation and suffering must end. Their decision amplifies the call for a just peace and breathes new life into the long-sought two-state solution.
In this regard, it is important to underscore the pioneering and courageous role of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who, together with Ireland and Norway, took a historic step in May of last year by officially recognizing the State of Palestine and openly condemning the massacres and Israeli crimes in Gaza.
In the words of many who have long advocated for justice, this is not just diplomacy—it is history correcting itself. Israel cannot defy the will of the international community.
