
Australia, UK, Canada, and Portugal Formally Recognize State of Palestine
New York, (September 22, 2025)
In a significant diplomatic shift, Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Portugal have officially recognized the State of Palestine, aligning with a growing international movement advocating for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
This coordinated recognition coincides with the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where discussions on the Middle East conflict are central.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced the formal recognition on September 21, 2025. Wong emphasized that this decision reflects Australia’s longstanding commitment to a two-state solution, which she described as the only path to enduring peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians. She further clarified that Hamas must have no role in the governance of a future Palestinian state, aligning with the positions of the UK, Canada, and Portugal.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed similar sentiments, stating that the recognition aims to “keep alive the possibility of peace and a two-state solution.” He condemned Hamas’s actions and affirmed that the group should not play a role in any future Palestinian government.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also announced Canada’s recognition, offering the country’s partnership in building a peaceful future for both states.
Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel highlighted that the recognition aligns with Portugal’s long-standing foreign policy principles and reiterated the country’s support for a two-state solution as the only path to a just and durable peace.
The formal recognition by these nations is seen as a symbolic yet significant step toward revitalizing the two-state solution framework. It is expected to influence discussions at the United Nations and may prompt other countries to reconsider their positions on Palestinian statehood.
However, the recognition also faces criticism from Israel, which views it as a reward for terrorism, and from the United States, which has dismissed the move as “performative”
As the international community responds to these developments, the focus remains on achieving a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attacks, and the establishment of a Palestinian state that can coexist peacefully alongside Israel.