UK, Australia, and Canada Officially Recognise State of Palestine in Landmark Move Towards Two-State Solution:

New York, September 22, 2025 — In a historic and coordinated diplomatic move, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada officially recognised the State of Palestine on Sunday. The joint announcement, made just ahead of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, aims to revive international momentum for a peaceful two-state solution in the Middle East. The decision comes at a critical time, as the region continues to grapple with the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel and the ongoing conflict that followed. With over 150 countries worldwide already recognising Palestinian statehood, this latest move by three major Western democracies marks a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape. Starmer: “Recognition to Keep Peace Hopes Alive” UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivered a strong message of support for peace in a video statement released on Sunday. “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 recognises the State of Palestine,” Starmer said. “In the face of the growing horrors in the Middle East, we are acting to keep alive the possibility of peace,” he added. “That means a safe and secure Israel, alongside a viable Palestinian state. At the moment, we have neither.” Starmer also made it clear that Hamas would have no role in the future governance of Palestine. He reiterated the UK's call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held in Gaza. Canada: Recognition Is Not a Reward for Terrorism Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney echoed similar sentiments, stressing that recognition of Palestine is a step toward peace—not an endorsement of violence. “Recognising the State of Palestine, led by the Palestinian Authority, empowers those who seek peaceful coexistence and the end of Hamas,” Carney said in a statement. “This in no way legitimises terrorism, nor is it any reward for it. Furthermore, it in no way compromises Canada’s steadfast support for the State of Israel, its people, and their security—security that can only ultimately be guaranteed through a comprehensive two-state solution,” he added. Australia Joins Global Majority Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, currently in New York for the UN General Assembly, also confirmed his government's formal recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state. In a statement, his office noted that the move acknowledges “the long-standing aspirations of the Palestinian people for statehood.” Australia joins a growing majority of nations—over 150—that now recognise Palestine. The Albanese government has been vocal in its support for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict, emphasizing international law and humanitarian principles. Global and Regional Reactions While the recognition has been welcomed by many in the international community, it has also drawn sharp criticism from Israel and the United States. Both governments argue that recognising Palestinian statehood at this time could undermine efforts to combat extremism and embolden groups like Hamas. Israel’s foreign ministry issued a strong condemnation, calling the decision "premature and dangerous." Washington also expressed disappointment, urging allies to focus instead on direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Despite the pushback, the joint statement by the UK, Canada, and Australia signals growing impatience with the status quo and a renewed effort to bring about a lasting peace in the region. A Turning Point? As world leaders gather in New York this week, the focus will undoubtedly shift to what concrete steps follow this recognition. Whether it leads to renewed negotiations, a UN vote, or increased pressure on both parties to reach a peaceful settlement remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the formal recognition of Palestine by three influential Western democracies marks a turning point in international diplomacy—and a bold call to revive the long-stalled dream of two states living side by side in peace

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