U.K., Canada and Australia Recognize Palestinian State, Defying U.S. Position
London — September 21, 2025
In a landmark diplomatic move, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia have officially recognized the State of Palestine, signaling a decisive break from the long-standing U.S. stance and reshaping the global debate on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The recognition comes amid intensifying calls for a two-state solution as the war in Gaza nears its second year.
Britain Leads With Historic Announcement
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the recognition on Sunday, stating that the decision was intended “to revive the hope of peace for Palestinians and Israelis, and to keep the two-state solution alive.” He added that the move reflects Britain’s responsibility to “act in the face of growing horror in the Middle East.”
Canada and Australia Follow Suit
Just minutes before the U.K.’s announcement, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney declared Canada the first G7 nation to recognize Palestine. He described the move as a commitment to “a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese followed shortly after, affirming his government’s recognition of “an independent and sovereign State of Palestine.”
Israel Condemns the Decision
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the recognition as “an absurd prize for terrorism,” accusing Western leaders of rewarding Hamas. “It will not happen,” Netanyahu said. “A Palestinian state will not be established west of the Jordan River.”
Israel’s Foreign Ministry declared on X that the recognition “does not promote peace but destabilizes the region and undermines future negotiations.”
Hamas and Palestinian Response
Hamas welcomed the announcements, calling them “a rightful outcome of our people’s struggle, steadfastness, and sacrifices.” However, Western leaders insisted the recognition is not a concession to Hamas. Starmer emphasized that “Hamas can have no role in Palestine’s future,” while Albanese stressed the group must be excluded from governance.
A Symbolic but Powerful Shift
While largely symbolic, recognition strengthens Palestine’s diplomatic legitimacy, enabling greater participation in international treaties and forums. More than 140 UN member states already recognize Palestine, but Sunday’s announcements mark a pivotal shift among U.S.-aligned powers.
On the ground, Gaza’s humanitarian crisis remains catastrophic. The Palestinian Health Ministry reports over 65,000 deaths since October 2023, including thousands of children, as Israel’s offensive continues. The West Bank faces mounting pressure from expanding settlements, further undermining hopes for peace.
Growing Global Momentum
France is expected to announce recognition at the UN General Assembly in New York this week, with President Emmanuel Macron declaring Palestinians “have a legitimate right to statehood.” He also condemned Israel’s renewed offensive in Gaza as “a huge mistake” and “absolutely unacceptable.”
Other nations, including Portugal, Belgium, Luxembourg, and New Zealand, are preparing similar announcements. Spain, Norway, and Ireland recognized Palestine last year.
The Road Ahead
Recognition by the U.K., Canada, and Australia highlights a growing international divide. While Washington argues recognition rewards extremism, U.S. allies now view it as the only way to keep the two-state solution alive.
“A viable Palestinian state alongside a secure Israel is the only path to lasting peace,” Starmer said. “Right now, we have neither.”