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The number of countries recognizing Palestine as a state rose to 151 after Canada, Australia, Portugal and the United Kingdom announced their decisions ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
World leaders are gathering this week for the annual U.N. General Assembly, where the war in Gaza and the future of a two-state solution are expected to dominate discussions.
European recognition of Palestine is seen as a major step that could increase diplomatic pressure on Israel.
French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to announce recognition in the coming days, while Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, Andorra and San Marino are also preparing similar moves.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said London’s decision was aimed at reviving hopes for peace.
“Amid growing horror in the Middle East, we are taking steps to keep alive the prospect of peace and a two-state solution,” Starmer said.
The U.K. became the first G7 nation and permanent member of the U.N. Security Council to formally recognize a Palestinian state. If France follows, the United States will remain the only Security Council permanent member opposed.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reacted angrily, threatening to annex the West Bank.
Recognition of Palestinian statehood is not only symbolic but also has legal and diplomatic implications. It strengthens Palestine’s ability to join international organizations, pursue legal action in international courts, and establish formal diplomatic relations.
Palestine’s membership in the International Criminal Court could open avenues for legal steps against Israel, analysts say.
Türkiye was one of the first countries to recognize Palestine, doing so on Nov. 15, 1988, the day Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat declared independence.
Since the Hamas-Israel war escalated in October 2023, Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, the Bahamas, Ireland, Norway, Spain, Slovenia, Armenia and Mexico have recognized Palestine.
With expected announcements during the 80th U.N. General Assembly, the number of recognizing states could rise to 157.
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