UK, Australia and Canada Officially Recognise Palestinian State, Leading to Israeli Backlash

The UK, Australia, and Canada have formally recognised a Palestinian state, a move met with anger from Israel. This decision reflects growing concerns over Israel's actions in Gaza and aims to promote peace efforts.

The United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada have officially recognised a Palestinian state, sparking a strong reaction from Israel. This coordinated move by the three Commonwealth nations highlights their growing frustration with Israel's actions in Gaza and its ongoing settlement expansion in the West Bank. The recognition aims to revive hopes for peace between Palestinians and Israelis.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasised that this decision is not a reward for Hamas, which was responsible for the October 7, 2023 attack that resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people and the abduction of 251 others. "Today, to revive the hope of peace and a two-state solution, I state clearly as prime minister of this great country that the United Kingdom formally recognizes the state of Palestine," Starmer said in a video message. "We recognized the state of Israel more than 75 years ago as a homeland for the Jewish people. Today we join over 150 countries who recognize a Palestinian state also."

International Reactions

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly opposed the recognition, stating that a Palestinian state will not be established west of the Jordan River. He criticised the move as rewarding Hamas. Meanwhile, Hamas praised the decision as a rightful outcome of their struggle for liberation. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas viewed it as an essential step towards achieving peace under international law.

The UK had previously indicated its intention to recognise Palestine unless Israel agreed to certain conditions, including a ceasefire in Gaza and allowing UN aid. More countries are expected to follow suit at the UN General Assembly, with France likely among them. The UK’s decision reflects its concern over the diminishing prospects for a two-state solution due to ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises.

Historical Context

The UK's role in Middle Eastern politics dates back over a century, particularly following World War I when it governed Palestine. The 1917 Balfour Declaration supported establishing a Jewish homeland but also promised not to harm Palestinian rights—a promise largely overlooked over time. Burcu Ozcelik from the Royal United Services Institute noted that recognition by France and the UK is significant due to their historical involvement in the region.

Husam Zomlot, head of the Palestinian mission in the UK, described this recognition as correcting historical wrongs dating back to 1917. He expressed hope that this acknowledgment would help rectify past injustices against Palestinians.

Diplomatic Implications

The UK's support for an independent Palestinian state has long been part of its foreign policy, contingent on achieving peace through a two-state solution. However, recent developments have cast doubt on this possibility. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in massive casualties and displacement, exacerbating humanitarian issues.

Independent experts commissioned by the UN Human Rights Council recently accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza—a claim Israel denies. Additionally, Israel's expansion of settlements in the West Bank further complicates peace efforts. Olivia O'Sullivan from Chatham House stated that this recognition underscores UK concerns about preserving the two-state solution's viability.

This diplomatic shift reflects broader international frustration with Israel's policies and highlights efforts to keep hopes for peace alive amidst challenging circumstances.

With inputs from PTI