LONDON: Britain and Portugal are set to recognize a Palestinian state on Sunday, ahead of an important week at the United Nations, where a number of other countries are expected to follow suit in a bid to pressure Israel regarding the situation in Gaza.
In recent months, several traditional allies of Israel have changed their stance as the conflict escalated following Hamas’s unexpected attack in October 2023. The situation in Gaza has led to significant destruction, loss of life, and severe food shortages, resulting in a major humanitarian crisis.
As world leaders prepare to gather for a crucial debate at the UN General Assembly in New York this week, discussions will focus on the proposed two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Reports indicate that around ten nations might recognize a Palestinian state in the coming days. According to UK media, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce this policy shift on Sunday, despite strong objections from Israel.
In July, Starmer stated that the UK would formally recognize Palestine if Israel did not make meaningful efforts towards a ceasefire with Hamas by the time the UN meeting took place. He noted that this move would help support a viable peace process at a critical moment for the two-state solution.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Starmer of supporting terrorism and catering to extremist ideologies.
Portugal’s Position
Portugal’s foreign ministry announced on Friday that it would also recognize a Palestinian state on Sunday. The Portuguese government had previously stated its intention to do so in July, explaining that the worsening conflict and humanitarian crisis, alongside Israel’s ongoing threats to annex Palestinian territory, prompted their decision.
Since that announcement, Israeli bombardment of Gaza has intensified, with a UN hunger monitor declaring a famine in parts of the territory. The Israeli military has also stated its intention to utilize unprecedented force in capturing Gaza City.
Other Western nations, including France and Canada, are also expected to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN this week. Israel has strongly opposed these developments and has reportedly considered annexing the occupied West Bank in retaliation.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized that the international community should not feel deterred by potential threats from Israel.
The conflict, which reignited following Hamas’s attack on October 7, 2023, has resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,219 individuals in Israel, mostly civilians. In response, Israel’s military operations in Gaza have claimed at least 65,208 lives, also primarily civilians, based on data from the Gazan health ministry, which the UN has deemed reliable.
