In a landmark shift, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and Portugal have formally recognized Palestine as a sovereign state, joining over 140 nations worldwide. The announcement, made ahead of the UN General Assembly, signals a major political rupture in the Western alliance that has long stood with Israel.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese underscored that recognition hinges on reforms by the Palestinian Authority — including elections in 2026 and the exclusion of Hamas from governance. Portugal echoed similar conditions while reaffirming its support for a two-state solution.
Starmer described the move as an effort to “revive hope for peace” and condemned Israel’s “relentless bombardment” of Gaza, which has triggered a humanitarian catastrophe. Carney stressed that Canada’s recognition — the first among G7 nations — is not a concession to terrorism but an investment in peaceful coexistence. Albanese announced Australia would move toward full diplomatic relations once Palestinian reforms are in place.
The coordinated recognition has provoked sharp backlash from Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu likened Australia’s decision to “appeasement” and warned that such steps only embolden Hamas. Washington also voiced concerns, with former US president Donald Trump threatening punitive measures against Canada.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the recognition, calling it a milestone toward a “Palestine living side by side with Israel in peace.” Celebrations were seen at the Palestinian Mission in London, where officials hailed the move as “correcting history.”
The decisions come as Israel faces growing diplomatic isolation and accusations of genocide over its Gaza offensive. With France and other European states expected to follow suit at the UN, momentum for Palestinian statehood is rapidly accelerating on the global stage.