UK, France, Australia, Canada, and Portugal’s Recognition of Palestine Sparks Controversy | WPN World People News

The United Kingdom, France, Australia, Canada, and Portugal have recently announced their recognition of the State of Palestine, emphasizing that the move is intended to advance the “two-state solution” and promote peace in the Middle East. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said this represents a commitment to a better future for both Palestinians and Israelis, stressing that Hamas must not take part in any future Palestinian government. Leaders of Australia, Canada, and Portugal also expressed support for Palestinian self-determination, saying the step could help move the peace process forward.

Israel, however, strongly objected. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the recognition of Palestine, calling it a “huge reward” in the wake of Hamas’s deadly attacks on October 7, 2023, and reaffirmed that “no Palestinian state will be established in the West Bank.” Israel also warned it could retaliate against the countries involved, possibly by annexing parts of the West Bank.

The United States has taken a cautious stance. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in Washington that President Trump sees the move as “rewarding Hamas” and argued it does nothing to secure the release of hostages or end the Gaza war. A brother of David, one of the hostages held in Gaza, also said that international recognition of Palestine would encourage Hamas to prolong the conflict and undermine Israel’s rescue efforts. Some British Conservative Party members criticized Prime Minister Starmer, accusing him of bowing to pressure from the party’s radical left wing.

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the decisions, calling them a return to historical justice and a boost to efforts for peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians. More than 150 countries worldwide have now recognized Palestine, but its borders, capital, and sovereignty remain unsettled and lack broad international consensus. While the recognition by the UK, Canada, Australia, and France carries symbolic significance, opposition from the United States and Israel, along with internal Palestinian political challenges, has once again highlighted the complexity and sensitivity of the Middle East peace process.