Britain, Canada, and Australia Recognize Palestinian State Amid Gaza War
A Landmark Diplomatic Shift
In a historic move, Britain, Canada, and Australia officially recognized a Palestinian state on Sunday, joining more than 140 countries that support Palestinian aspirations for an independent homeland. The decision comes amid growing frustration over the ongoing Gaza war and is intended to revive hopes for a two-state solution—though it is certain to anger Israel and its key ally, the United States.
Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin welcomed the recognition, calling it “a move bringing us closer to sovereignty and independence.”
Leaders Announce Recognition
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared:
“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.”
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney echoed the sentiment:
“Canada recognises the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese added that recognition was aimed at restoring momentum toward a two-state solution, starting with a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.
Britain’s Break with Washington
The UK’s decision highlights a growing rift with Washington. In July, Starmer warned that Britain would recognize Palestine unless Israel took steps to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The ultimatum put him at odds with US President Donald Trump, who has firmly opposed Palestinian statehood.
Husam Zomlot, head of the Palestinian Mission in London, called Britain’s step “long-overdue recognition” and “an irreversible step towards justice, peace, and the correction of historic wrongs.”
Israel’s Rejection and Domestic Debate
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently declared that there will never be a Palestinian state, underscoring the deep divide. In London, public opinion remains mixed. Some citizens welcomed the recognition as an overdue acknowledgment of Palestinian rights, while others feared it undermines Israel’s security and emboldens Hamas.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy said Britain bears a historic responsibility dating back to the 1917 Balfour Declaration, which promised support for a Jewish homeland without harming Arab rights. Critics, however, argue that recognition alone is insufficient, with some campaigns calling for an apology and reparations.
Possible Consequences
The recognition may result in the Palestinian Mission in London being upgraded to full embassy status. It could also pave the way for bans on products originating from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.
“A Step Toward Independence”
Palestinian officials stressed that recognition is not the end, but the beginning of a new phase.
“It might not end the war tomorrow, but it’s a move forward which we need to build on and amplify,” Shahin said in Ramallah.
The decision by Britain, Canada, and Australia signals a major diplomatic shift and adds momentum to global efforts to preserve the two-state solution as violence in Gaza continues.