‘Hope for Peace’: UK, Canada and Australia Recognise Palestinian State, Reaffirm Two-State Solution
In a significant and coordinated diplomatic shift, three major Western nations—the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia announced their official recognition of a Palestinian state on Sunday. The move challenges Israel’s stance and marks a notable divergence from the position of the United States.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared the decision on social media platform X, stating the recognition was aimed at reviving hopes for peace. “Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two-state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine,” he posted.
The announcements were made simultaneously. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also released official statements confirming their respective nations’ recognition.
This collective action comes despite strong opposition from the United States and Israel, which have criticized such moves as rewarding Hamas and terrorism. Prime Minister Starmer framed the recognition as a crucial step toward ending the conflict in Gaza and establishing a lasting peace.
UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy clarified that recognition does not instantly create a sovereign state but is a vital diplomatic tool. He emphasized that equating the Palestinian people with Hamas is a false narrative and that this move is essential to keep the prospect of a viable two-state solution alive.
The decision follows a warning issued by Starmer in July, which stated that Britain would recognize Palestine unless Israel agreed to a ceasefire, allowed unimpeded UN aid into Gaza, and took concrete steps toward long-term peace.
The recognitions carry substantial weight as the UK is a member of the G7 and a permanent member of the UN Security Council. Over 145 countries have now recognized Palestinian statehood, including several European nations.
The move also carries deep historical significance for the UK, which governed the region after World War I. Deputy PM Lammy referenced the 1917 Balfour Declaration—which supported a Jewish homeland while promising to protect Palestinian rights—and described the recognition as a step toward correcting a “historical injustice.”
Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian head of mission, welcomed the decision, stating it ends “the denial of our existence that started 108 years ago.”
The announcement places new pressure on Israel, whose government has repeatedly opposed a two-state solution and continues to expand settlements in the occupied West Bank.
(With inputs from Agencies)