Jerusalem: Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom have formally recognized the State of Palestine, joining more than 150 UN member states in what leaders describe as a vital step to preserve the two-state solution.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Ottawa could “no longer wait” for a negotiated peace deal, citing ‘Israel’s’ settlement expansion in the West Bank, the war in Gaza, and the declining prospects for Palestinian statehood.
He stressed that recognition strengthens the Palestinian Authority, not Hamas, while reaffirming Canada’s support for ‘Israel’s’ security within a two-state framework.
Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, alongside Foreign Minister Penny Wong, made a similar declaration, calling recognition a reflection of Australia’s “longstanding commitment” to peace and security for both peoples.
The UK also issued its recognition on Sunday, aligning with France, Belgium, and Portugal, which have announced similar moves ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Also Read | Billie Eilish reaffirms support for Gaza in graduation post
‘Israel’ and the United States strongly oppose the decision. US President Donald Trump and Republican lawmakers warned the step undermines peace efforts and rewards Hamas.
Palestinian officials welcomed the coordinated announcements, calling recognition a “prerequisite for peace.”