By Eniola Amadu
Britain, Canada and Australia have recognised a Palestinian state, joining more than 140 countries worldwide in a move aimed at advancing a two-state solution.
The coordinated decision, announced on Sunday, comes against the backdrop of Israel’s nearly two-year war in Gaza following the October 2023 Hamas attack.
Leaders of the three Western nations, historically close allies of Israel, said their recognition was driven by frustration over the conflict’s humanitarian toll and the need to revive prospects for peace.
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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, speaking in London, said the recognition was intended to “revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis.”
He condemned what he described as “the man-made humanitarian crisis in Gaza,” citing relentless bombardment, starvation and devastation.
Britain’s move carries particular weight given its colonial-era role in shaping the modern Middle East, including the creation of Israel after World War Two.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the recognition, calling it a step towards Palestinians living “side by side with the State of Israel in security, peace, and good neighborliness.”
Starmer also wrote directly to Abbas, affirming the United Kingdom’s support for Palestinian statehood and reiterating London’s long-term commitment to a two-state solution.
Israel sharply criticised the decision. Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said the recognition amounted to rewarding “murderers,” referring to Hamas, whose October 2023 assault killed about 1,200 people and led to 251 hostages being taken, according to Israeli figures.
Since then, Gaza’s health authorities report more than 65,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, have been killed, with widespread famine, displacement, and destruction of infrastructure.
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The toll and scale of the war have fuelled public anger globally and intensified calls for governments to act.
Other European countries, including France, are expected to follow with similar recognition during the United Nations General Assembly in New York this week.
