UK, Canada, Australia Recognize Palestinian Statehood Amid Escalating Gaza Crisis

London, UK – In a significant diplomatic shift, the United Kingdom has formally recognized Palestinian statehood, aligning with recent similar announcements from Canada and Australia. The decision, revealed by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Sunday, comes amidst the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and heightened international pressure for a durable peace.

Starmer stated in a video message that the move aims to “keep alive the possibility of peace and of a two-state solution” in the face of the “growing horror in the Middle East.” This marks a departure from the UK’s previous stance of withholding recognition until a moment of “maximum impact,” a policy re-evaluated as Israel’s actions in Gaza have intensified, leading to systematic destruction, starvation, and displacement.

The historic recognition by the three nations precedes the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where Palestinian sovereignty and the future of the Israeli occupation will be central topics. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the decision reflects an “unwavering commitment to a two-state solution” and the “inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination.” Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy clarified that recognition is a step to “keep alive the prospects of a two-state solution,” acknowledging it won’t create a state “overnight.”

The Palestinian Authority’s Foreign Minister, Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, welcomed the recognition as a “message of hope” for an independent state and a clear signal that “Israel has no sovereignty on the territories of our state.” Layla Moran, a UK MP of Palestinian descent, hailed the move as rectifying a “decades-long injustice” but stressed the need for tangible changes on the ground.

However, the recognition has drawn a strong rebuke from Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labelled it a “prize” for Hamas and vowed that “A Palestinian state will not be established west of the Jordan River,” promising a response after his return from a visit to the United States this week. Far-right Israeli ministers, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, have reacted by calling for immediate annexation of the West Bank, a long-standing objective for some factions within the Israeli government.

US President Donald Trump, during a recent UK visit, reportedly expressed opposition to the recognition. Meanwhile, France and Saudi Arabia are set to co-host a summit in New York on Monday to advance a two-state solution, highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts amidst escalating regional tensions.

阅读中文版 (Read Chinese Version)

Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.