The United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Portugal announced this Sunday the official recognition of the Palestinian State, in a coordinated decision that marks a substantial shift in these countries' foreign policy. The move, which comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, was strongly criticized by Israel and rejected by the United States, which stated that "it has no plans" to follow the same path.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer led the announcement with a video message in which he declared: "In view of the growing horror in the Middle East, we're acting to keep alive the possibility of peace and a two-state solution". He added that "that means a secure and protected Israel alongside a viable Palestinian State; at this moment we have neither". For the Labour leader, "the time has come" to take this step.
Canada was the first G7 member to confirm the recognition. Its Prime Minister, Mark Carney, stated that as of September 21 "Canada recognizes the State of Palestine and offers its collaboration in building the promise of a peaceful future for the State of Palestine and the State of Israel". In line with this, Australian Anthony Albanese emphasized that his government, together with Canada and Britain, seeks "an international effort for a two-state solution".
