Britain, Canada, Australia and Portugal recognise Palestine: Impact on Two-State Solution

With these four countries joining the ranks, the total number of nations acknowledging Palestinian statehood has surged to approximately 150, underlining growing global pressure on Israel amid concerns over humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

Key Diplomatic Developments
On Sunday, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the United Kingdom’s recognition, affirming that the move is aimed at keeping the two-state solution alive rather than punishing Israel. Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel echoed this view, stating that recognition is the only path to “lasting peace.” Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized that Palestine’s future as a democratic country is essential for regional stability. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese underscored Australia’s long-standing support for Palestinian self-determination as integral to the peace process.

Global Implications
This collective recognition from four influential democracies applies new diplomatic pressure on Israel to halt settlement expansion in the West Bank and comply with international humanitarian law. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticised the decision as “rewarding terrorism,” pledging to respond upon his return from the United States. Meanwhile, Britain’s Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper warned that any attempt by Israel to annex West Bank territory would not be tolerated.

What This Means for Palestine’s UN Status
Although Palestine holds “Permanent Observer State” status at the United Nations, full recognition by Security Council permanent members China, Russia, France and now Britain reinforces its bid for full UN membership. Should France ratify its recognition this week, Palestine would secure support from four of five permanent Security Council members, leaving the United States as the sole holdout.

Looking Ahead
As images of devastation from the Gaza conflict intensify global public opinion, more countries are weighing recognition. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has appealed directly to the United States to follow suit. Whether Washington will shift its longstanding policy remains uncertain, but the recent wave of diplomatic endorsements has reignited momentum for a negotiated two-state framework and offered renewed hope for peaceful coexistence in the Middle East.