London, UK – September 22, 2025 – In a significant diplomatic development, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Portugal formally announced their recognition of a Palestinian state on Sunday, marking a substantial shift in international policy and underscoring the growing global consensus for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The coordinated move, made on the eve of the United Nations General Assembly, signals a united front among these key Western nations in response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and perceived stagnation in peace efforts.
This latest wave of recognitions adds to the more than 150 countries that already acknowledge Palestine’s statehood, reflecting an international community increasingly concerned that the window for a viable two-state solution is rapidly closing. The announcements were met with immediate and stern condemnation from Israel and a measured but critical response from the United States.
Historic Declarations and Stated Rationale
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared in a video statement that the United Kingdom was formally recognizing the State of Palestine to “revive the hope of peace and a two-state solution.” He emphasized that this action was not a reward for Hamas but a necessary step to preserve the possibility of lasting peace, stating, “In the face of the growing horrors in the Middle East, we are acting to keep alive the possibility of peace and a Two State Solution.” Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed this sentiment, highlighting Canberra’s longstanding commitment to a two-state solution as the “only path to enduring peace and security for the Israeli and the Palestinian peoples.” Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney stressed the importance of preserving the viability of a two-state solution, noting that the current Israeli government was “working methodically to prevent the prospect of a Palestinian state from ever being established.”
Portugal’s Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel described the recognition as a “fundamental, constant, and basic line of Portuguese foreign policy,” aligning with Lisbon’s historical stance.
Global Summit and Expanding Recognition
France, a permanent member of the UN Security Council, is expected to formally announce its recognition of a Palestinian state on Monday, ahead of a high-level summit in New York co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia. This gathering aims to rally international support for the two-state solution. Several other European nations, including Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and Andorra, are also anticipated to follow suit in the coming days. French President Emmanuel Macron has articulated that France’s recognition is intended to undermine Hamas by providing Palestinians with a credible political alternative, stating, “We don’t recognize Palestine to reward violence. We do it to create a political horizon, especially for those who reject Hamas.”
Strong Opposition and Diplomatic Fallout
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vehemently rejected the recognitions, calling them an “absurdity” and a “reward for terrorism.” He declared unequivocally, “There will be no Palestinian state” and vowed to announce his response upon his return from the United States. Several far-right ministers in his coalition have called for the immediate annexation of the occupied West Bank in response.
The United States has characterized the recognitions by its allies as “performative gestures,” with a State Department spokesperson emphasizing a focus on “serious diplomacy, not performative gestures.” The US reiterated its priorities as the release of hostages, Israel’s security, and regional peace free from Hamas. Washington has consistently opposed unilateral moves towards Palestinian statehood, utilizing its veto power at the UN Security Council to block Palestine’s bid for full membership.
Geopolitical Implications and Background
The recognition of Palestinian statehood by major Western nations represents a significant diplomatic shift and highlights Israel’s increasing isolation on the international stage regarding its handling of the Gaza conflict and its policies in the West Bank. While the immediate practical impact of recognition on the ground may be limited, it carries substantial political, diplomatic, and legal weight. It places Palestine and Israel on a more equal footing under international law and could potentially lead to increased political pressure on Israel, including the possibility of sanctions.
The moves come amidst the ongoing war in Gaza, which has caused a devastating humanitarian crisis, with over 65,000 Palestinians killed and the displacement of nearly 90% of the population. This conflict has intensified international calls for a lasting resolution and a two-state solution, a framework that has long been the cornerstone of international peace efforts but has faced persistent obstacles.
Related Developments: US Arms Sale
In a development underscoring the complex geopolitical landscape, the Trump administration has reportedly sought congressional approval for a nearly $6 billion arms sale to Israel. This proposed sale includes Apache helicopters and infantry assault vehicles, signaling continued robust US military support for Israel even as its allies pursue diplomatic avenues that diverge from American policy on Palestinian statehood. The US has provided substantial military aid to Israel throughout the year, despite growing international condemnation of Israel’s actions in Gaza and opposition from some Democrats in the Senate.
A Path Forward?
The coordinated recognition by the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal, along with anticipated similar moves by France and others, represents a clear signal to Israel that the international community is increasingly unwilling to accept the status quo. While immediate on-the-ground changes remain uncertain, this diplomatic surge aims to inject renewed urgency into efforts to achieve a two-state solution, a prospect that has grown increasingly distant amid nearly two years of devastating conflict and entrenched political positions. The coming days, with world leaders converging at the UN, will reveal the full extent of the diplomatic momentum generated by these significant recognitions and Israel’s potential response.
