UK, Australia, and Canada Officially Recognise Palestinian State in Landmark Decision

UK, Australia, Canada Recognise Palestinian State in Historic Foreign Policy Shift

In a landmark move, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada formally recognised a Palestinian state on Sunday, September 21, 2025,signaling a historic shift in Western foreign policy and drawing immediate criticism from Israel. Portugal is also set to follow suit later in the day.

The recognition comes amid mounting international pressure on Israel over its ongoing military operations in Gaza, triggered almost two years ago by the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the decision on X (formerly Twitter), stating: “Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and to advance a two-state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine.”

Canada followed closely, with Prime Minister Mark Carney confirming recognition and expressing a commitment to partner in building a peaceful future for both Israel and Palestine.

This marks the first time G7 countries have recognised Palestinian statehood without a negotiated peace deal, breaking with long-standing Western policy. France and other nations are expected to announce similar steps at the upcoming UN General Assembly in New York.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reacted angrily, calling the recognition “an absurd reward for terrorism” and warning that it could jeopardise Israel’s security. The move comes amid a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with widespread destruction, soaring civilian casualties, and severe shortages of food and medical aid.

The UK’s decision reflects growing domestic pressure. A recent YouGov poll showed that nearly two-thirds of young Britons support Palestinian statehood. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy noted the UK’s historical responsibility to support a two-state solution, referencing the UK’s role in the 1917 Balfour Declaration, which laid the groundwork for the creation of Israel.

Globally, three-quarters of UN member states already recognise Palestinian statehood, with over 140 out of 193 countries having taken the step. Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa emphasised that the recognition keeps alive the possibility of a two-state solution.

Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin described the recognition as more than symbolic, saying it sends a “clear message to Israelis on their illusions about continuing their occupation.”

The conflict remains deadly. The 2023 Hamas attacks killed 1,219 people, mostly civilians, while Israel’s retaliatory campaign has killed over 65,000 people in Gaza, according to figures reported by the UN as reliable.

Prime Minister Starmer also reiterated calls for Hamas to release hostages and indicated potential new sanctions against Palestinian militants. Lammy clarified that recognition is aimed at fostering long-term peace, while immediate humanitarian relief remains essential.

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